Major James Wolfe, 1750 circa (miniature on paper)

Major (later Major-General) James Wolfe (1727-1759), 1750 circa. Miniature, Indian ink and pencil on paper, by James Ferguson (1710-1776), 1750 circa. James Wolfe came from a family of professional soldiers and was a rising star of the British Army. Wolfe fought at the Battles of Dettingen (1743) and Culloden (1746) but it was his role in the campaign in North America during the Seven Years War (1756-1763) that raised him to the level of national hero. In 1759, although still only 32, Wolfe was appointed to command the British expedition against the French fortress of Quebec. In a battle fought just outside the city, Wolfe’s army won a stunning victory over the French. It led to the fall of Quebec and marked the beginning of the end of French control of Canada. Wolfe was mortally wounded early on in the battle, and did not live to celebrate his victory. He became a legend - a charismatic young soldier who died heroically in action at the moment of his triumph. The miniature belonged to Robert Monckton (1726-1782) and was passed down through his family.