Christian Friedrich Zincke was a German miniature painter active during the 18th century, primarily known for his enamel portrait work. Born in 1684 in Dresden, Zincke initially trained as a goldsmith before moving to England around the beginning of the 18th century. In England, he studied under the renowned enamel painter Charles Boit, a Swedish miniaturist who was a significant influence on Zincke's style and technique.
Zincke became one of the most prominent enamel painters of his time, enjoying patronage from British high society, including royalty. His enamels were appreciated for their vivid colors, fine detail, and the durability that enamel work provided compared to traditional miniature paintings in watercolor.
During his career, Zincke created portraits of many notable figures, including King George I and Queen Caroline, as well as other members of the royal family and aristocracy. His work was characterized by the meticulous application of enamel, which allowed him to achieve a high level of likeness and subtlety in his portraits.
Despite his success, Zincke's later years were marred by eye problems, which eventually led to his retirement in the 1740s. His contributions to enamel painting remained influential, and his works are now held in various museums and collections around the world, serving as important examples of 18th-century portraiture.
Christian Friedrich Zincke passed away in 1767, leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence in the field of miniature painting. His dedication to the craft not only advanced the popularity of enamel miniatures in England but also set a standard for future artists in the genre.