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'Jersey's' Story

For the first time in over 200 years, two companion portraits painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds in 1748, will be brought together by the National Trust and Royal Museums Greenwich in a display in the Saloon at Saltram, from May 23 until 1 November

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

The display at Saltram will shift focus onto ‘Jersey’s’ story. A young enslaved boy painted in the earliest known portrait of a person of colour by Joshua Reynolds. Historical research, painting x-rays, and conservation cleaning offer a small glimpse into a life untold. Through audio, scent and touch, connect with the life of 18th Century Captains and able seamen and have a chance to reflect on the exhibitions thought provoking story.

The recently analysed and conserved portrait of Lieutenant, later Captain, Paul Henry Ourry, MP (1719-1783) with an enslaved child known as 'Jersey' will be re-displayed in the Saloon at Saltram with Captain the Honourable George Edgcumbe, 1720-95 loaned by Royal Museums Greenwich. They will be on display at Saltram until the 1 November this year.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

The Saloon where the paintings are featured are level from the Entrance Hall and are wheelchair accessible. The conservation video and sensory elements are not step free, but will be made available in a step free space for wheelchair users.

Upcoming events

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19 Jul to 6 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 49 other dates or times

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27 Jul to 1 Sep 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 11 other dates or times

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29 Jul to 26 Aug 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 5 other dates or times

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on
31 Jul to 27 Aug 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 5 other dates or times