Mary Western Portrait Returns After Conservation Work
A striking portrait of Mary Western née Shirley has recently undergone conservation, revealing new depth, colour and clarity in one of Preston Manor’s important early eighteenth-century paintings. The work, painted by Charles Jervas (c.1675–1739), dates to around 1712/1713 and forms part of the Brighton & Hove Museums collection.
Mary Western owned Preston Manor in the early 1700s, after inheriting the estate following the death of her father. Her portrait offers a direct connection to the house’s Georgian history and to the people who shaped its development long before Preston Manor became the museum visitors know today.
Jervas was one of the leading portrait painters of his generation and served as Principal Painter to Kings George I and George II. His portraits are known for their polished finish and refined presentation, qualities that can once again be appreciated following the recent treatment.
The painting was brought into the conservation workshop after being removed from display at Preston Manor. Although structurally sound, its surface had a substantial layer of accumulated dirt and discoloured varnish. This had muted the original tones, reduced contrast and made the space within the composition appear flatter than intended.
Conservators carefully removed the dirt and degraded varnish layers, revealing brighter colours and a clearer sense of depth. A new protective varnish was then applied to safeguard the painting and enhance the appearance of the surface. The frame also received specialist attention: it was cleaned, and selected highlights were re-gilded to restore some of its original brilliance.
This conservation work allows visitors to see Mary Western’s portrait with renewed detail and vibrancy, while also highlighting the care that goes into preserving Preston Manor’s collections for the future. Visitors can discover the portrait, explore the house Mary Western once owned, and learn more about the fascinating stories behind Preston Manor and the people connected with it.
