David Lucas, After John Constable, R. A.

C.G. Boerner Limited, London (Artemis), 15 July 2003

Lucas commenced work on this mezzotint in 1834 and it was published by Moon and others in 1837. In the meantime, the work formed the subject of an intense series of letters from the painter to the engraver, and the former guided Lucas with numerous touched proofs such as the present impression, continually informing the distracted engraver that each would be the last. Constable's letters give a vivid picture of the progress of this vastly ambitious mezzotint: 16 Dec, 1835: 'When shall I see another print of the Salisbury - it will far exceed all other mezzintoes...'; 31 Dec, 1836 'I send Joseph as my mind is so anxious about the present Proof that it rather disturbs my night ... I worry about this plate a good deal - and if I do - what must be - your case with it'; Undated, 1837 'Your man has told me there is every reason to know that it will print both fuller and richer - tone - tone is the most seductive - entrancing and best inviting quality - a picture and a print can possess - it is the first thing seen - and like a flower in full bloom invites to an examination of the plant itself.' Constable's last instructions to Lucas were written only two days before the painter's death on March 31, 1837.