Painting to be restored in public at The Box

A GIANT painting which hasn't been seen in public for decades will be rolled out' at The Box next month, as part of a live 'conservation in action' event showing how delicate works of art can be restored.

Lady Jane Grey at Her Place of Execution was painted in 1839 by Plymouth-born artist Solomon Hart (1806-1881). The painting, which measures over three and a half metres high by just under three and a half metres wide (12 feet high by 11 feet wide), has been in storage for years. Now, the team at The Box are keen to explore its possibilities for the future.

Hart is widely considered to be one of the most influential Jewish artists of 19th century Britain. He was the first Jewish person to be elected to London's prestigious Royal Academy and was also its Librarian for 17 years. His legacy in this role is huge - during his tenure he increased the expenditure on books significantly. Hart devoted an entire year to painting his ambitious work which shows the unfortunate Lady Jane Grey (1537-1554) about to meet her demise.