ROBERT MOUTREY

OIL PAINTER

London
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Service Portraits

Commemorating the stories of those who serve with pride

A service portrait is a tribute to dedication and personal commitment — whether military, medical, civic, or another form of public service. Painted by hand using traditional oil techniques, each portrait is shaped through consultation and thoughtful design, often drawing on photographs, memories, and symbolic details. Commissioned to honour retirement, achievement, or remembrance, these portraits offer a lasting expression of respect for the individual behind the role.

A limited number of commissions are undertaken each year — to secure yours, begin your journey here.

Start Your Portrait

Your Service Portrait

A Tribute to Commitment and Courage

Bespoke Service Portraits are for those seeking:

  • A one-of-a-kind portrait that captures the individuality and dedication of the person in service.
  • A way to preserve their courage, pride, and achievements for future generations.
  • A portrait that becomes part of your family’s story, honouring their commitment.
  • A refined and dignified addition to your home or office that reflects their role.
  • A deeply personal reminder of their contributions and sacrifices.

For a meaningful tribute that reflects a life of service, a bespoke Service Portrait is the perfect way to honour dedication and sacrifice with dignity and respect.

Your Portrait Experience

From consultation to completion, a collaborative journey.

Step 1. Private Consultation

Every portrait begins with a conversation. Whether in person or online, we’ll explore your ideas and discuss the details that matter most—composition, tone, and the elements that reflect your loved one’s story.

Step 2. Design And Feedback

Preliminary sketches and studies provide the first glimpse of your portrait. Your input ensures the design aligns with your vision before painting begins.

Step 3. Careful Craftsmanship

The painting process involves layering oil paints with precision and care. Once complete, the portrait is varnished, framed, and delivered to your home with attention to every detail.

Subjects and Sizes

Service Portraits

Service Portraits usually include one subject i.e. a police officer, nurse, judge etc.

Our standard sizes for Service Portraits are based on traditional sizes dating back to the 1650s and are reflected in the table below. We also offer custom sizes should you wish. For more information on portrait sizes, please read our blog article HERE.

SERVICE PORTRAITS (Inches)

Head

20x24"

Three Quarter Lenght

25x30"

Kit-Cat

28x36"

Small Half

34x44"

Half

40x50"

Bishops Half

44x56"

Whole

58x94"

Bishop's Whole

70x106"

Traditional Service Oil Portrait

Hear from Robert's clients

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Caitlin Birley profile pictureCaitlin Birley
16:21 21 May 24
I cannot thank Robert enough for his beautiful painting of our son. It’s the first thing people comment on when they come to our house, they can’t believe the likeness. It feels so special to have something so personal and meaningful - he’s captured a moment in time so perfectly. Robert was so professional and personable in all our communication - there was no question too silly! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Cass Randolph profile pictureCass Randolph
13:38 13 May 24
We recently commisioned Robert to paint a portrait of our son. The whole experience was a dream, Robert's structured process was very welcome, and allowed us to really consider the kind of impression we wanted him to capture, it gave us total liberty with a guiding hand. An initial brief was followed by sketches which led onto the final piece, which is eye-wateringly beautiful. Robert has masterfully encapsulated the subject, surrounding and overall feeling, and produced a painting that we'll treasure forever, and ever and ever... and ever! Thanks again, you absolutely nailed it! x
Rich profile pictureRich
12:15 05 Apr 24
I can't recommend Robert enough for anyone interested in having a portrait commissioned. Robert made what can be quite an odd process of capturing a snapshot of a person's life incredibly smooth and created a painting that reflects all of the emotions of the moment perfectly. I couldn't be happier with the end result!
Dane Cross profile pictureDane Cross
15:49 04 Apr 24
I commissioned Robert to create a painting for my sister of her beloved dogs.
It was so much fun - he involved me at every stage, making it feel like a collaboration.
I ended up with a gorgeous painting and it had the desired effect, my sister cried with joy (and her dogs barked with alarm at their lifelike oil doppelgängers!)
I can’t recommend him enough!
Sam A profile pictureSam A
15:00 04 Apr 24
Robert unveiled his portrait of my wife and I at our wedding. We hadn’t really considered how well an oil portrait would accompany such an occasion but it was an elegant addition to the event. It will take pride of place in our home

Let’s start your portrait journey.

Robert creates only a handful of bespoke portraits each year.

By completing this form, he can begin to understand your ideas, timeline, and hopes for the portrait. Robert personally reviews every request and responds directly to explore your project in more detail.

Whether you’re looking for a quote or would like to arrange a conversation via phone, WhatsApp, or Zoom — this is the first step on your portrait journey.

*We will never share your details with anyone. Your information is used solely to respond to your request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did we miss something?

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To make an enquiry, you can contact me directly via email or through the contact form above. Please provide details about the type of portrait you are interested in, such as the subject, size, and any specific requirements or preferences you have in mind.
Yes, I am delighted to accept international commissions. We’ll collaborate to discuss the logistics of making it happen, including arranging for reference materials, consultations, and delivery. Shipping fees and any additional costs, such as customs duties, will be negotiated during the process to ensure a seamless experience. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out, and we can explore the possibilities together.
The time it takes to complete a portrait depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the piece. Generally, it takes between 4 to 12 weeks from the initial consultation to the finished painting. Additional time may be needed for the painting to dry fully before varnishing and delivery, this can take up to 12 months.
Yes, I can work from high-quality photographs. This option is convenient for clients who may not be able to sit for live sessions. If you choose this option, please provide clear and detailed photographs that accurately represent the subject. I can also take my own reference photos if preferred.
Yes, I offer live sittings for clients who prefer this traditional method. Typically, a live sitting involves one or more sessions where the subject poses for the portrait. This approach can add a unique depth and vitality to the painting.
The cost of commissioning a portrait varies depending on factors such as the size, complexity, and medium of the painting. I offer different pricing tiers to accommodate various budgets and preferences. For a detailed quote, please contact me with your specific requirements.
Yes. I travel free of charge within London. For portraits outside of London but within a 25-mile radius of my studio, I charge a travel fee. Beyond that radius, I also charge for accommodation where necessary. While I prefer to work from my studio—where I can control the light and environment—I understand that location can often play a powerful role in telling someone’s story. I’m happy to discuss what works best for your portrait.
When commissioning a portrait, consider factors such as the size of the painting, the setting or background, the subject’s pose and expression, and whether you want the portrait to be realistic or have a more stylized approach. Discussing these details during the initial consultation helps ensure the final piece meets your expectations.

Thinking About a Portrait Commission?

Download the 2026 Brochure

This complimentary brochure offers insight into the portrait process, the types of portraits available, and what it’s like to collaborate on a handcrafted oil painting. Save it for future reference or begin your portrait journey today.