19th Century British School, After Sir Thomas Lawrence, Portrait of William Linley
Oil on Canvas

19th Century British School, After Sir Thomas Lawrence, Portrait of William Linley, oil on canvas, framed. Measurements 53.5 x 43.5 cm, frame 70 x 60 cm

Based on an original painting by Sir Thomas Lawrence which was bequeathed by Linley to the Dulwich Picture Gallery, dated 1785/9. The painting depicts William Linley on the verge of manhood, as indicated by his long locks and uniform of St. Pauls School. William was known for his sweet voice and rosy cheeks, inspiring Samuel Taylor Coleridge in 1797 to compose the sonnet 'While my young cheek retains its youthful hues' after hearing Linley sing. William was the youngest of 12 children, all of whom were musical, the most successful being his brother Thomas Linley the younger. Following his return to the UK in 1795 after spending some years in India as a civil servant for the East India Company he worked with his brother-in-law at Drury Lane Theatre. William wrote comic operas including 'The Honey Moon' and 'Pavilion', and his most successful 'The Dramatic Songs of Shakespeare'.

Condition Report

The painting is an oil on canvas which is framed without glazing. The canvas has been relined, with some wrinkling present. The paint surface appears to be stable, with some surface-level craquelure present but no paint loss or signs of deterioration. The painting seems to have been cleaned, with some evidence for surface rubbing in parts to the upper surface of the paint around the hair. Some surface level accretions are present and some small chips around the edge of the painting near to the frame. The frame appears to have solid joints and does have signs of general wear and tear including minor surface losses.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.