George Spencer (1739-1817) succeeded his father to become 4th Duke of Marlborough in 1758. In 1762 he was made Lord Chamberlain, and a year later Lord Privy Seal. He lived at Blenheim Palace. Before he become a miniaturist, Gervase Spencer was employed as a gentleman's servant. He became a successful miniature painter on the newly fashionable base of ivory and later also produced work in enamel.

Continental artists first introduced enamel painting to England in the 17th century. But it was in the early 18th century that it became fashionable. The young German Christian Friedrich Zincke dominated the market in London. It was Zincke who trained a number of English artists, including William Prewett. Most artists working in enamel were taught by an experienced enameller. It is not known who trained Gervase Spencer this difficult art, but he later taught Henry Spicer, who in turn taught William Birch. In 1794 Birch successfully established himself in America as an enamel painter.

Sir Arthur Gilbert and his wife Rosalinde formed one of the world's great decorative art collections, including silver, mosaics, enamelled portrait miniatures and gold boxes. Arthur Gilbert donated his extraordinary collection to Britain in 1996.