Richard Mead was a leading surgeon in early 18th century Britain. He was an important figure in St Thomas’s Hospital and also advised Thomas Guy on the setting up of Guy's Hospital. He was one of the first governors of the Foundling Hospital. He was physician to many leading figures of the day including George I, George II, Isaac Newton and Robert Walpole. He is perhaps most famous for his encouragement of inoculation of smallpox. In addition Mead was avid and diverse collector, he opened his collection of rare books, art, classical sculptures to the public. His immense collection was sold after his death. Mead stands wearing a dark brown velvet jacket with a white cravat and white ruffles. On a table to the left is a letter with an envelope addressed To / Dr Mead.