William Hoare of Bath R.A.

By family descent

Bath, Victoria Art Gallery Bath, William Hoare of Bath R.A., 1990, no. 22

V. Hutchings, Messrs Hoare Bankers: A History of the Hoare Banking Dynasty, London 2005, p. 68
N. Jeffares, Dictionary of Pastellists Before 1800, on-line edition

This pastel has been well preserved and carefully presented. The pigments have remained largely untouched and there are only very minor areas of surface dirt to the sheet. The original frame is in good condition, however some of the intricate carving is fragile. Please note that this pastel has not been examined out of its frame.
"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."

Educated at Westminster, Henry Hoare II inherited the family banking business at the tender age of nineteen before marrying the heiress Susan Colt in 1726. Renowned as a young man for his dissolute style of living, Henry threw himself into the family business, serving as partner for nearly sixty years and earning himself the nickname, "Henry The Magnificent". Following his mother's death in 1741 he moved to Stourhead with his family. Two years later, by the age of thirty-eight he had lost his second wife, leaving him with three children. Henry did not marry again, instead turning his attention to the re-design of his garden at Stourhead, a project that would occupy him for the rest of his life. The artist has here skilfully captured his powerful character and patrician presence through strict profile.

We are grateful to Neil Jeffares for his help in cataloguing this work.