Robert White

including portraits of Dr. John Blow (1643-1708), William Salmon (1644-1713), Thomas Manton (1620-1667), Elias Keach (c. 1665-1701) and five others

Anonymous sale, Phillips London, 9 November 1993, lot 1

The medium in each of the nine works has remained strong and fresh. The vellum in two of the works has several very small areas of discolouration, however these can only be seen on very close inspection. In general the works have been well preserved. For further information regarding this lot please contact Mark Griffith-Jones (0207 293 5083) or Emmeline Hallmark (0207 293 5407). mark.griffithjones@sothebys.com emmeline.hallmark@sothebys.com
"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."

Robert White was a pupil of David Loggan (see earlier lot in this sale). Like his master, White specialised in the art of plumbago drawing.  He also worked as an engraver and in 1674 he engraved the first Oxford Almanac. His drawings are rare in private collections, although there are ten drawings in the Huntington Library, California and a further thirteen in the British Museum, London.

John Blow was a musician and composer. In 1668 he was appointed organist to Westminster Abbey, while playing at the Chapel Royal, Windsor from 1676. A doctorate of music was bestowed on him in 1677 and he was responsible for the music for the coronations of King James II, King William III and Queen Anne.

William Salmon was a doctor and author. Working as a doctor in London he also wrote a wide variety of books on subjects as diverse as medicine, art, philosophy and cooking.

Thomas Manton graduated from Wadham College, Oxford in 1639. After moving to London he was appointed rector of St. Mary's, Stoke Newington. In 1660 he became one of twelve chaplains to the King. In the same year he was created Doctor of Divinity by the University of Oxford.

Elias Keach was born in London, but by 1686 he had sailed to Philadelphia. He founded two churches in Pennsylvania and travelled widely in America. In 1689 he returned to England and served as pastor, first at Wapping and then at Goodman's Field.