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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Kit-Cat Club
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Early 18C club of leading *Whig politicians and writers, which derived its name from a London pastrycook, Christopher Cat – either because they first met in his house, or because they relished his mutton pies (known as kit-cats), or perhaps both. The club's fame has been assured by *Kneller, who painted portraits of 42 of his fellow members. The pictures, now in the National Portrait Gallery, are of identical size (91x71cm/36x28in), usually with just one hand showing. This short half-length was apparently made necessary by the low ceiling of the dining room in which the club met. 'Kit-cat size' later became a standard term in portraiture.
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