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Sir Oswald Birley

(1880-1952), Painter

Sitter in 1 portrait
Artist associated with 16 portraits
Sir Oswald Birley was born in New Zealand while his parents were on a world tour. He served in France in the World War I first with the Royal Fusiliers, later transferring to the Intelligence Corps obtaining the rank of Captain and being awarded the Military Cross in 1919. During World War II he served with the rank of Major in the British Home Guard. A favourite of the Royal Family he was well-known for his portraits of King George V, Queen Mary, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother and the present monarch Queen Elizabeth II. Birley was knighted in 1949.

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Sir Oswald Birley; Rhoda (née Lecky Pike), Lady Birley; Maxime de la Falaise

by Cecil Beaton
bromide print on white card mount, 1930s
NPG x13190

Related People

India-Jane Birley (granddaughter)
Rhoda (née Lecky Pike), Lady Birley (wife)
Robin Birley (grandson)
Rupert Birley (grandson)
Maxine ('Maxime') de la Falaise (née Birley) (daughter)

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Artists and artisans

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Sir Oswald Birley