Daniel Maclise, R.A.

Thomas Agnew & Sons, London where bought by Sir David Scott

SHEET The sheet has been laid down and is in good overall condition. Some light surface dirt, in particular to the extreme edges. FRAME Held in a simple wooden frame; under glass.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This is a rare example of Maclise's work as a young student of the Royal Academy. He was admitted to the Royal Academy Schools in April 1828 and in 1829, the year that he drew this portrait, he was awarded a silver medal for a drawing from an antique statue. In 1830 Maclise published nearly eighty watercolour portraits of literary figures for the newly founded Fraser's Magazine, entitled Gallery of Illustrious Literary Characters. It is likely that the present drawing relates to this commission. Two of these drawings, a pencil portrait of the poet and journalist William Maginn (1794-1842), and a watercolour drawing of the journalist  William Jerdan (1782-1869), are in the collection of the National Portrait Gallery.