IN his lecture entitled The Portrait and the English Garden, Sir Roy Strong led us through the evolution of garden design as seen in portraits contemporary with various gardens where sitters had been placed either in, or with their garden as a backdrop.

Using slides to illustrate, the earliest example was of Henry VIII accompanied by family members, all in formal stance between columns, with a view of turf laid in pattern, beyond.

From asymmetrical designs, the more regular knot garden evolved, and the even more complex 'proper knot'. In about 1577 patterns for knots were published (Hill's Book).

Only one portrait Lettuce of 1606 (at Arbury Hall) shows a view of a herbary. In this era, plants were limited to such as pinks, rosemary and thyme. Few bulbs were grown because they were so costly.

Square gardens surrounded by arcades (such as at Haddon Hall) were introduced from the Netherlands. By 1630 exterior double staircases and symmetrical gardens were the fashion, leading on to parterres. Inigo Jones was one of the most important designers of the time.

After 1740 features (temples, obelisks, fountains etc) were popular. Hogarth illustrated some in portrait drawings. William Kent was a foremost planner.

Dissolution of formality became evident by the mid-18th Century: grottos and cascades were introduced, and gardens became landscaped. Capability Brown now emerged, conceiving plans for vast parkland area.

Gardening was given prominence in portraits, as in The Young Gardener by Reynolds, the aspiring young lad dressed in totally unsuitable shoes and clothes!

In his own inimitable manner, with dry humour, and extensive historical and artistic knowledge, Sir Roy amply conveyed his subject to a full capacity, enthralled audience.