A feared political figure and a renowned champion of liberty, he later became Lord Mayor of London and by the end of his life was almost accepted by the establishment. 'Wilkes and Liberty' was the rallying cry against the overbearing powers of Government during the first decades of George III's reign. The events of his turbulent career reflected the fierce political struggles of the day.

Provenance

John Wilkes; his niece, Dinah Hayley; by descent to Sir Richard Sherston Baker, Bart.