The son of an architect working at the court of Thurn and Taxis, Johann, Joseph Zauffely or Zoffany was born in Frankfurt in 1733 and started to study art with Speer in his native town.
He then went to Italy in order to perfect his studies and returned in 1758 to Germany where he got married. Unhappy, he decided to go to England and after experiencing some difficulties managed to benefit from the protection of Lord Bute who introduced him to the Royal court.
Zauffely painted many portraits of British noblemen and actors and that of Garrick earned him considerable success.
He exhibited his works in London between 1762 and 1800, notably at the Society of Artists and the Royal Academy of which he was a co-founder. Zauffely painted numerous portraits of academicians as well as those of the members of the Royal family.
Facing financial problems he however left London and went to Italy where he produced some portraits and paintings before visiting Vienna.
After receiving the title of Baron of the Saint Empire by Empress Maria-Theresa, Zauffely returned to England for a while et went in 1783 to India where he stayed during seven years. His activity in India enabled him to save enough money to ensure his independence but his talent started to fade after 1790.
Though he tried to rival English portrait painters such as Joshua Reynolds, Romney and Thomas Gainsborough, Zauffely never managed to catch their sense of charm and distinction. He died in Strand-on-the-Green in 1810.
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