Correspondence of Wright with Mr. Daulby and Mr. J. L. Philips.—The Shakespeare Gallery Pictures.—Dispute about Prices.
Correspondence of Wright with Mr. Daulby and Mr. J. L. Philips.—The Shakespeare Gallery Pictures.—Dispute about Prices.
“Derby, December 31st1779.“To D. Daulby.“The Empress of Russia has taken into Her capital collection my two pictures of ‘Vesuvius’ & the ‘Girandolo,’ and given me 500 gsfor them which is a good reward accompanied with high honour—40 gsto a friend is as little as I can take for the picture you saw of the Fireworks, if you mean that, if not it will depend upon ye size & finishing of any other.”
“Derby, December 31st1779.
“To D. Daulby.
“The Empress of Russia has taken into Her capital collection my two pictures of ‘Vesuvius’ & the ‘Girandolo,’ and given me 500 gsfor them which is a good reward accompanied with high honour—40 gsto a friend is as little as I can take for the picture you saw of the Fireworks, if you mean that, if not it will depend upon ye size & finishing of any other.”
“4thJune 1780.“To D. Daulby.“Dear Sir,“If nothing material happens to prevent me, I intend sending by Shawcross on Monday morning, directed for Mr.Tate as you desire, the picture of the ‘Girandolo’ which I hope will get safe to hand, and meet with your and your friend’s approbation. It is one of the highest finished pictures I have painted. Cost me upwards of six weeks study, and was put into ye exhibition at 100gs.As you are only to send me forty (which I must beg you to keep secret) you must look upon it partly as a compliment on Mr.Tate’s account, and in some degree a compliment to yourself as a well-wisher to and encourager of the arts. With respect to the payment, I would wish you to suit your convenience; any time in the course of the next year will be agreeable to me.“I have made no alteration in the picture, as I could not with advantage, but most sincerely wish there had been such a Rocket as you wish for. To add it now would destroy too much ye unity of the picture.”
“4thJune 1780.
“To D. Daulby.
“Dear Sir,
“If nothing material happens to prevent me, I intend sending by Shawcross on Monday morning, directed for Mr.Tate as you desire, the picture of the ‘Girandolo’ which I hope will get safe to hand, and meet with your and your friend’s approbation. It is one of the highest finished pictures I have painted. Cost me upwards of six weeks study, and was put into ye exhibition at 100gs.As you are only to send me forty (which I must beg you to keep secret) you must look upon it partly as a compliment on Mr.Tate’s account, and in some degree a compliment to yourself as a well-wisher to and encourager of the arts. With respect to the payment, I would wish you to suit your convenience; any time in the course of the next year will be agreeable to me.
“I have made no alteration in the picture, as I could not with advantage, but most sincerely wish there had been such a Rocket as you wish for. To add it now would destroy too much ye unity of the picture.”
“Derby, Nov 14th1785“To D. Daulby.“Dear Sir,“The cavern with the figure of ‘Julia,’ which I exhibited in the spring, is still in my possession. It was esteemed by the artists the most sublime picture I ever painted, & so I think myself. A rising moon always conveys to me great majesty.“I think myself much honoured by your society. Pray make my best comptsto all the members, and believe me your much obliged friend,“JOSH.WRIGHT.”“I am going to have my picture of ‘Gibraltar’ raffled for by eighty subscribers at five guineas a ticket. The subscription is not yet opened publickly, though I have several names down.“Danl. Daulby, Jun., Esq.,“Liverpool.”
“Derby, Nov 14th1785
“To D. Daulby.
“Dear Sir,
“The cavern with the figure of ‘Julia,’ which I exhibited in the spring, is still in my possession. It was esteemed by the artists the most sublime picture I ever painted, & so I think myself. A rising moon always conveys to me great majesty.
“I think myself much honoured by your society. Pray make my best comptsto all the members, and believe me your much obliged friend,
“JOSH.WRIGHT.”
“I am going to have my picture of ‘Gibraltar’ raffled for by eighty subscribers at five guineas a ticket. The subscription is not yet opened publickly, though I have several names down.
“Danl. Daulby, Jun., Esq.,
“Liverpool.”
“My Dear Sir,“Many thanks are due to you for the trouble you have had in negotiating the business between Mr. Hardman and myself, and of which I shall retain a grateful remembrance, as I have had repeated proofs of your attention to my best interest, & even in your last letter have anticipated my wish of making my intention of disposing of the picture of ‘Gibraltar’ by subscription as much known as possible in the circle of your acquaintance, for it is not lawful without an act of parliament to advertise a Raffle. I must, therefore, be obliged to my friends to declare my intention of having eighty subscribers at five guineas. I hope your friend Mr. Hardman will not mention the price he gives for the pair of caverns, as I have always had fifty guineas a piece for them of that size.“You say you hope I will excuse the free thoughts you have intrusted me with respecting the large cavern with the figure of ‘Julia.’ ’Tis the privilege of friends to be open to each other, and if I knew what you really wished I would most certainly accommodate myself to your inclinations. Will you have the picture sent to you? If you approve of it keep it, and pay me for it as shall best suit your conveniency. If you do not like it return it, and we shall both be pleased, for as it was esteemed by the artists the most sublime picture I ever painted, I doubt not but I shall one day or other dispose of it; and believe me, dear sir, with much esteem,“Yours sincerely,“JOSH.WRIGHT.“Derby, Jan. 14, 1786.“Danl. Daulby, Jun., Esq.,“Liverpool.”
“My Dear Sir,
“Many thanks are due to you for the trouble you have had in negotiating the business between Mr. Hardman and myself, and of which I shall retain a grateful remembrance, as I have had repeated proofs of your attention to my best interest, & even in your last letter have anticipated my wish of making my intention of disposing of the picture of ‘Gibraltar’ by subscription as much known as possible in the circle of your acquaintance, for it is not lawful without an act of parliament to advertise a Raffle. I must, therefore, be obliged to my friends to declare my intention of having eighty subscribers at five guineas. I hope your friend Mr. Hardman will not mention the price he gives for the pair of caverns, as I have always had fifty guineas a piece for them of that size.
“You say you hope I will excuse the free thoughts you have intrusted me with respecting the large cavern with the figure of ‘Julia.’ ’Tis the privilege of friends to be open to each other, and if I knew what you really wished I would most certainly accommodate myself to your inclinations. Will you have the picture sent to you? If you approve of it keep it, and pay me for it as shall best suit your conveniency. If you do not like it return it, and we shall both be pleased, for as it was esteemed by the artists the most sublime picture I ever painted, I doubt not but I shall one day or other dispose of it; and believe me, dear sir, with much esteem,
“Yours sincerely,
“JOSH.WRIGHT.
“Derby, Jan. 14, 1786.
“Danl. Daulby, Jun., Esq.,
“Liverpool.”
“Derby, Feby. 7th1786.To J. Daulby, Jun.“Dear Sir,“By the time this reaches you, I hope ‘Julia’ will be near her journey’s end. I sincerely hope she will arrive in good condition, and that ‘Abraham’ and ‘Isaac’ will not befound to have lain too hard upon her. I did everything in my power to keep her untouched and spotless. I should have sent the picture off sooner, but the week the man who I trust to pack my pictures was out, and the 2ndShawcross, after promising me to take it, neglected it. ’Tis directed to Mr. Tate, and to go by land carrier.“I am persuaded by my friends to take the fashionable tour of the Lakes next Autumn. I sounded my dear friend Tate upon the scheme, but have not heard from him since. If we go your company will be a happy addition, but I would have the party small, none engaged in it but draftsmen, for reasons too obvious to need mentioning.“I am,“Dear Sir, with much esteem,“Yours very sincerely,“JOSH.WRIGHT.“DanlDaulby, Jun., Esqr“Liverpool.”
“Derby, Feby. 7th1786.
To J. Daulby, Jun.
“Dear Sir,
“By the time this reaches you, I hope ‘Julia’ will be near her journey’s end. I sincerely hope she will arrive in good condition, and that ‘Abraham’ and ‘Isaac’ will not befound to have lain too hard upon her. I did everything in my power to keep her untouched and spotless. I should have sent the picture off sooner, but the week the man who I trust to pack my pictures was out, and the 2ndShawcross, after promising me to take it, neglected it. ’Tis directed to Mr. Tate, and to go by land carrier.
“I am persuaded by my friends to take the fashionable tour of the Lakes next Autumn. I sounded my dear friend Tate upon the scheme, but have not heard from him since. If we go your company will be a happy addition, but I would have the party small, none engaged in it but draftsmen, for reasons too obvious to need mentioning.
“I am,
“Dear Sir, with much esteem,
“Yours very sincerely,
“JOSH.WRIGHT.
“DanlDaulby, Jun., Esqr
“Liverpool.”
“Derby, March 25th1786.“Dear Sir,“I was sorry to be informed by our friend Tate of your indisposition, and that you are still, by your own accts. a cripple. Dr. Darwin, a very eminent physician of this town, is very much disposed to gout, and he told me while he continued in the use of wine he was affected with it. He left it off, and drank nothing but ale and small beer. Still he had fits of it, but much weakened. He then disused ale, drank nothing but small beer, still he had a little gout about him. He has for some time past drank nothing but water, and now he has no gout at all. If this practice does not coincide with your opinion, I know your good sense will excuse me taking the liberty of mentioning to you, as your well-being is the sole motive.“To DanlDaulby, Esqr“Liverpool.”
“Derby, March 25th1786.
“Dear Sir,
“I was sorry to be informed by our friend Tate of your indisposition, and that you are still, by your own accts. a cripple. Dr. Darwin, a very eminent physician of this town, is very much disposed to gout, and he told me while he continued in the use of wine he was affected with it. He left it off, and drank nothing but ale and small beer. Still he had fits of it, but much weakened. He then disused ale, drank nothing but small beer, still he had a little gout about him. He has for some time past drank nothing but water, and now he has no gout at all. If this practice does not coincide with your opinion, I know your good sense will excuse me taking the liberty of mentioning to you, as your well-being is the sole motive.
“To DanlDaulby, Esqr
“Liverpool.”
“Derby, Oct 5th1786.“Dear Sir,“Mr. Smith gives this discription, which I have just received, of the parts of your little picture:—‘The view is on the shore of Posilipo in particular. The houses nearest in view form part of the village of Mare Chiare, a place much frequented by the lower class of people in Naples to spend the summer evenings. They generally go by water, and are regaled with hard eggs & good Falernian wine (the usual repast brought from the neighbourhood of Pozzouli). The other house or palazzo on the Hill in the distance is called the pallace of 9 windows, but is inhabited only by servants. When you see my good friend Turner make mybest regards to him, and say how much I am obliged to him & his friend MrWhiatt for his accurate account of Shakespear’s scenes. I am, dear sir, with much regards,“Yours,“J. WRIGHT.“To Danl. Daulby, Esqre.”
“Derby, Oct 5th1786.
“Dear Sir,
“Mr. Smith gives this discription, which I have just received, of the parts of your little picture:—‘The view is on the shore of Posilipo in particular. The houses nearest in view form part of the village of Mare Chiare, a place much frequented by the lower class of people in Naples to spend the summer evenings. They generally go by water, and are regaled with hard eggs & good Falernian wine (the usual repast brought from the neighbourhood of Pozzouli). The other house or palazzo on the Hill in the distance is called the pallace of 9 windows, but is inhabited only by servants. When you see my good friend Turner make mybest regards to him, and say how much I am obliged to him & his friend MrWhiatt for his accurate account of Shakespear’s scenes. I am, dear sir, with much regards,
“Yours,
“J. WRIGHT.
“To Danl. Daulby, Esqre.”
“Derby, Sep 4th1787.“Dear Sir,“How welcome are the good tidings of returning health to my dear Tate, which you have so kindly communicated to me. May heaven speedily restore him to his former health & vigour. No disease more compleatly debilitates the frame than a nervous or putrid fever; and, if I have observed right, there is none, considering the state the body is reduced to, from which it is sooner reinstated. His premeditated attack upon the cold roast beef was, I think, a very favourable presage of the above observation. I sincerely hope he made an excellent repast, and feels the good effect of it. Make my love to him with every good wish for his felicity, in which this family most cordially joins with me, and hope to have the pleasure of seeing him here when convenient to him. I am going for ten days (if it agrees with me) to Matlock. The Baths served me some time ago, but from a particular circumstance, being obliged to ride four & twenty miles the day I left, which so fatigued me, my complaints returned upon me, nor can I wear them off.“’Tis now almost four months since I touched a pencil. Have no particular complaint but general debility, which has reduced me to so torpid a state I feel no inclination to pursue my art.“I am, Dear Sir,“Your most obedient servt“JOSHWRIGHT.“MrJnoLeigh Philips,“Manchester.”
“Derby, Sep 4th1787.
“Dear Sir,
“How welcome are the good tidings of returning health to my dear Tate, which you have so kindly communicated to me. May heaven speedily restore him to his former health & vigour. No disease more compleatly debilitates the frame than a nervous or putrid fever; and, if I have observed right, there is none, considering the state the body is reduced to, from which it is sooner reinstated. His premeditated attack upon the cold roast beef was, I think, a very favourable presage of the above observation. I sincerely hope he made an excellent repast, and feels the good effect of it. Make my love to him with every good wish for his felicity, in which this family most cordially joins with me, and hope to have the pleasure of seeing him here when convenient to him. I am going for ten days (if it agrees with me) to Matlock. The Baths served me some time ago, but from a particular circumstance, being obliged to ride four & twenty miles the day I left, which so fatigued me, my complaints returned upon me, nor can I wear them off.
“’Tis now almost four months since I touched a pencil. Have no particular complaint but general debility, which has reduced me to so torpid a state I feel no inclination to pursue my art.
“I am, Dear Sir,
“Your most obedient servt
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“MrJnoLeigh Philips,
“Manchester.”
“5 May, 1789.“My Dear Sir,“I did not intend fixing a price upon my pictures in the Exhibition till I got to Town, but having just received a letter from Mr.Heath to know if the picture of the ‘Dead Soldier’ was disengaged, and what value I set upon it, it becomes necessary at once to fix the prices of those you enquire after, and to have your answer by return of post, as I must answer Mr.Heath’s letter. The picture of the ‘Dead Soldier,’ framed, 100gs.‘Boy and Girl with a Bladder,’ 50gs.‘Girl with a Charcoal Stick,’ 40gs.“I am very happy it was in my power to afford you and your friends rational entertainment while with me. The felicity was mutual, believe me; and that I am very sincerely yours,“JOSHWRIGHT.“St. Ellens,“5 May, 1789.“My best compliments attend the ‘Triumvirate,’ in which Mrs.Wright begs to join.”
“5 May, 1789.
“My Dear Sir,
“I did not intend fixing a price upon my pictures in the Exhibition till I got to Town, but having just received a letter from Mr.Heath to know if the picture of the ‘Dead Soldier’ was disengaged, and what value I set upon it, it becomes necessary at once to fix the prices of those you enquire after, and to have your answer by return of post, as I must answer Mr.Heath’s letter. The picture of the ‘Dead Soldier,’ framed, 100gs.‘Boy and Girl with a Bladder,’ 50gs.‘Girl with a Charcoal Stick,’ 40gs.
“I am very happy it was in my power to afford you and your friends rational entertainment while with me. The felicity was mutual, believe me; and that I am very sincerely yours,
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“St. Ellens,
“5 May, 1789.
“My best compliments attend the ‘Triumvirate,’ in which Mrs.Wright begs to join.”
“Derby, Dec. 4, 1789.“My Dear Sir,“Pray how is my friend Tate? He has given of late but a bad account of himself; is obliged to live with great uniform temperance, and deny himself that conviviality he is so well calculated for. I wrote to him some little time ago, part of which letter I make no doubt but you are acquainted with, as it was my wish you should. You see I have enough of the Devil in me to wish to retaliate upon the misguided Alderman (Boydell), who I hear loses ground very fast, and will shortly have none to work for him but his half-starved creatures.“I am engaged at present and shall be for some time with portraits, so that my historical pictures are, I fear, very distant. However, I do not lose sight of them, and as the hour’s exercise I daily take on horseback seems to contribute much to my health, I hope to be a tiptop by and by to attack ’em.“However light my friend Smith made of the gout when you was with him, it has proved a serious affair to him, subjecting him to much pain and a long disuse of his pencil. Pity it is a man’s industry should prove an evil to him, and his laudable endeavours to provide for his tender offspring frustrate its own intention. Adieu, my good friend, and believe me yours very sincerely,“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby, Dec. 4, 1789.
“My Dear Sir,
“Pray how is my friend Tate? He has given of late but a bad account of himself; is obliged to live with great uniform temperance, and deny himself that conviviality he is so well calculated for. I wrote to him some little time ago, part of which letter I make no doubt but you are acquainted with, as it was my wish you should. You see I have enough of the Devil in me to wish to retaliate upon the misguided Alderman (Boydell), who I hear loses ground very fast, and will shortly have none to work for him but his half-starved creatures.
“I am engaged at present and shall be for some time with portraits, so that my historical pictures are, I fear, very distant. However, I do not lose sight of them, and as the hour’s exercise I daily take on horseback seems to contribute much to my health, I hope to be a tiptop by and by to attack ’em.
“However light my friend Smith made of the gout when you was with him, it has proved a serious affair to him, subjecting him to much pain and a long disuse of his pencil. Pity it is a man’s industry should prove an evil to him, and his laudable endeavours to provide for his tender offspring frustrate its own intention. Adieu, my good friend, and believe me yours very sincerely,
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“St. Ellens, 24 June, 1791.“My Dear Sir,“Yesterday I received a letter from the Secyof the Spring Gardens Exhibition to know the price I had fixed upon the picture of “Antigonus,” a gentleman having applied for it, and desired him to write to me. Mr. Barrow, the Secytold him the conditions which I meant to part with the large pictures, namely, that they should be engraved from, by capital artists (which was not strictly what I meant). To this he had no objection, and assured him if he purchased the picture it should be engraved by Mr.Middiman, or some artist of equal reputation. It should seem from hence the person who is about the picture buys it with an intent to have a plate made from it, which will preclude my having it done by Heath, though from what you said to me last on that head, there are little grounds for hope of that ever taking place. Pray do you know the character of Mr. Middiman as an engraver?“I should not have troubled my friend with this business (tho’ I am at all times and all occasions happy to have his advice) had not my friend Tate, when last here, asked the price of the ‘Storm’ for your Brother, Mr.H. Philips, at which time I did not give him a decisive answer. Therefore I think it incumbent on me, before I treat with the Gentleman, to inform you the price is 100gs.and shall be glad of your answer by return of post if convenient.“The extremely cold weather immediately succeeding very hot, has diseased me very much. I have had for some time past a nervous fever hanging about me, and am now muchdisturbed with an inflammation on my liver. Art stands still. Adieu, my good friend, and believe me, with much respect,“Yours very sincerely,“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“St. Ellens, 24 June, 1791.
“My Dear Sir,
“Yesterday I received a letter from the Secyof the Spring Gardens Exhibition to know the price I had fixed upon the picture of “Antigonus,” a gentleman having applied for it, and desired him to write to me. Mr. Barrow, the Secytold him the conditions which I meant to part with the large pictures, namely, that they should be engraved from, by capital artists (which was not strictly what I meant). To this he had no objection, and assured him if he purchased the picture it should be engraved by Mr.Middiman, or some artist of equal reputation. It should seem from hence the person who is about the picture buys it with an intent to have a plate made from it, which will preclude my having it done by Heath, though from what you said to me last on that head, there are little grounds for hope of that ever taking place. Pray do you know the character of Mr. Middiman as an engraver?
“I should not have troubled my friend with this business (tho’ I am at all times and all occasions happy to have his advice) had not my friend Tate, when last here, asked the price of the ‘Storm’ for your Brother, Mr.H. Philips, at which time I did not give him a decisive answer. Therefore I think it incumbent on me, before I treat with the Gentleman, to inform you the price is 100gs.and shall be glad of your answer by return of post if convenient.
“The extremely cold weather immediately succeeding very hot, has diseased me very much. I have had for some time past a nervous fever hanging about me, and am now muchdisturbed with an inflammation on my liver. Art stands still. Adieu, my good friend, and believe me, with much respect,
“Yours very sincerely,
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby, Sep. 24th1792.“My Dear Philips,“This morning I have sent off by Shawcross a case addressed to you, containing the book of drawings after Mic. Angelo, and a slight sketch of a wild scene which I painted some years ago. I looked it up the other day, and if you think it worth a place in your collection, please accept it with my esteem.“The picture of the ‘Ponte Salerno’ is in such a state I shall not be able to finish it at present. I retouched the sky some time ago & some other parts of the picture, & the colours are changed in a most abominable manner. One never can depend upon fresh colours laid on old. I hope the little picture I have sent you will not share the same fate. I have finished the ‘Storm’ except the figure of Antigonus. Your Brother Frank seemed to like it much; indeed those who have seen it give it the preference to the other. I have brought ye ship nearer, which heightens the distress of the scene; and being much larger, the masts go above the horizon, and make a ballance to the other side of the picture.“I am going to begin a cottage on fire for a Gentleman at Bristol. He has offered me 50gs.to finish it highly. I have also finished Tate’s ‘Moonlight,’ which is much admired. I think I shall send it with the ‘Storm,’ not by way of receiving the cash—for that I forbid—but to give you taste and pleasure, for I flatter myself it will. Perhaps if he has no place to hang it, you would give it house room till wanted.“When I have thought a little more about manufacturing pictures, and have digested a plan for such business, I shall like it much, if I can get a sale for them. I have got two or three on the stocks. The one is finished, the other far advanced. The finished one is on a pannel, which I had by me, but the smooth surface is not calculated for expedition. The subject is ‘The Lake of Albano,’ sunset. Being done from one pallet, there is great unity and harmony in the colouring. When you have received the case, pray give me a line, for I shall wish to know Mic. Angelo is safe in your possession. Adieu, my good friend. Give my respects to Mrs.Philips and all my friends, in which compl.Romana wishes to unite.“I am, very sincerely yours,“J. W.“To J. L. Philips.”
“Derby, Sep. 24th1792.
“My Dear Philips,
“This morning I have sent off by Shawcross a case addressed to you, containing the book of drawings after Mic. Angelo, and a slight sketch of a wild scene which I painted some years ago. I looked it up the other day, and if you think it worth a place in your collection, please accept it with my esteem.
“The picture of the ‘Ponte Salerno’ is in such a state I shall not be able to finish it at present. I retouched the sky some time ago & some other parts of the picture, & the colours are changed in a most abominable manner. One never can depend upon fresh colours laid on old. I hope the little picture I have sent you will not share the same fate. I have finished the ‘Storm’ except the figure of Antigonus. Your Brother Frank seemed to like it much; indeed those who have seen it give it the preference to the other. I have brought ye ship nearer, which heightens the distress of the scene; and being much larger, the masts go above the horizon, and make a ballance to the other side of the picture.
“I am going to begin a cottage on fire for a Gentleman at Bristol. He has offered me 50gs.to finish it highly. I have also finished Tate’s ‘Moonlight,’ which is much admired. I think I shall send it with the ‘Storm,’ not by way of receiving the cash—for that I forbid—but to give you taste and pleasure, for I flatter myself it will. Perhaps if he has no place to hang it, you would give it house room till wanted.
“When I have thought a little more about manufacturing pictures, and have digested a plan for such business, I shall like it much, if I can get a sale for them. I have got two or three on the stocks. The one is finished, the other far advanced. The finished one is on a pannel, which I had by me, but the smooth surface is not calculated for expedition. The subject is ‘The Lake of Albano,’ sunset. Being done from one pallet, there is great unity and harmony in the colouring. When you have received the case, pray give me a line, for I shall wish to know Mic. Angelo is safe in your possession. Adieu, my good friend. Give my respects to Mrs.Philips and all my friends, in which compl.Romana wishes to unite.
“I am, very sincerely yours,
“J. W.
“To J. L. Philips.”
“Nov. 29th1792.“My Dear Sir,“To have read such flattering accounts of my picture from all hands is highly satisfactory to me, and none more so than the last. With respect to the payment, as you are so kind to take my cash into your hands, I wish you would place it with the rest, and in a few posts I will remit between 5 & £600 to be added to the other sums. I thank you for your friendly advice about the ‘Indian Widow,’ and tell our friend Tate, who I suppose will communicate it to Mr.McNiven, that in consideration of a little of his assistance to lay out my property to advantage, I will deduct 10gs.I sent it off by Shawcross last Monday, and hope it will be safe in Manchester ere this gets to hand. I have remembered the outline of ‘Vesuvius’ for friend Tate, which I should think may be enveloped in smoke, but no fire should appear, indeed the hot Lava does not show itself by daylight.“I am glad to hear plates are in readiness for Mic. Angelo. I fear I shall never do my part; my hand is too unsteady now for lines. Adieu, my good friend. Romana wishes to join in best remembrances to you & Mrs.Philips & your family, to our dear friend Tate, Mr. Moreland, &c.“Dear Sir,“Your much obliged friend,“JOSHWRIGHT.“Derby, Nov. 29th 1792.”“Pray what is your opinion of the Stocks at this time? I have a little property in, and have some thoughts of selling out. I bought in about 76. The little picture on pannel is too square; the right measure of ye frame at the end should cover ⅛thin., and ye top and bottom ½´´, which will bring the picture into better proportion.”
“Nov. 29th1792.
“My Dear Sir,
“To have read such flattering accounts of my picture from all hands is highly satisfactory to me, and none more so than the last. With respect to the payment, as you are so kind to take my cash into your hands, I wish you would place it with the rest, and in a few posts I will remit between 5 & £600 to be added to the other sums. I thank you for your friendly advice about the ‘Indian Widow,’ and tell our friend Tate, who I suppose will communicate it to Mr.McNiven, that in consideration of a little of his assistance to lay out my property to advantage, I will deduct 10gs.I sent it off by Shawcross last Monday, and hope it will be safe in Manchester ere this gets to hand. I have remembered the outline of ‘Vesuvius’ for friend Tate, which I should think may be enveloped in smoke, but no fire should appear, indeed the hot Lava does not show itself by daylight.
“I am glad to hear plates are in readiness for Mic. Angelo. I fear I shall never do my part; my hand is too unsteady now for lines. Adieu, my good friend. Romana wishes to join in best remembrances to you & Mrs.Philips & your family, to our dear friend Tate, Mr. Moreland, &c.
“Dear Sir,
“Your much obliged friend,
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“Derby, Nov. 29th 1792.”
“Pray what is your opinion of the Stocks at this time? I have a little property in, and have some thoughts of selling out. I bought in about 76. The little picture on pannel is too square; the right measure of ye frame at the end should cover ⅛thin., and ye top and bottom ½´´, which will bring the picture into better proportion.”
The Plates for Mic. Angelo here alluded to evidently refer to the reproduction on copper of some of Wright’s sketches from the “Sistine Chapel,” for we find Wright sending the sketches to Philips on Sep. 24th, 1792. There is in existence an impression from copper of one of them, partly in aquatint, but whether from the hand of Wright or Philips it is now impossible to say.
“Derby, 31stDec., /92.“My Dear Sir,“Enclosed I send you Messrs.Crompton’s Draught on Messrs.Ayton, Brassey, Lees, & Co., their Bankers, Lombard Street, for £460, payable in fourteen days, which you will be kind enough to acknowledge the receipt of as soon as you can make it convenient. What you said in your last respecting money matters makes an apology on this account unnecessary. Nevertheless, I must say I feel the obligation very sensibly; and now let me thank you for a Barrel of excellent oisters. Your Brother H. spent part of a day with us.I was in a working humour, so I did not let his visit stop the progress of my pencil. He sat by me, and seemed pleased with the rapid advance of my picture, for it was one of my playthings, or sketches that I was engaged with, which, with six others, I intend to send you next week for yours and my friends’ inspection. ‘A Morning Effect of the Lake of Albano’ is a companion to Wilson’s ‘Evening Effect,’ for my dear friend Tate. I wish it may be found a meet one. I have just prepared a canvas the size of Tate’s ‘Moonlight,’ for an evening effect on another view on the River Tay at Dunkeld, which, if care and study will accomplish it, I intend it to be the best picture I ever painted. I know not how it is, tho’ I am engaged in portraits and made a complete dead colour of a half length yesterday, I find myself continually stealing off and getting to Landscapes.“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby, 31stDec., /92.
“My Dear Sir,
“Enclosed I send you Messrs.Crompton’s Draught on Messrs.Ayton, Brassey, Lees, & Co., their Bankers, Lombard Street, for £460, payable in fourteen days, which you will be kind enough to acknowledge the receipt of as soon as you can make it convenient. What you said in your last respecting money matters makes an apology on this account unnecessary. Nevertheless, I must say I feel the obligation very sensibly; and now let me thank you for a Barrel of excellent oisters. Your Brother H. spent part of a day with us.I was in a working humour, so I did not let his visit stop the progress of my pencil. He sat by me, and seemed pleased with the rapid advance of my picture, for it was one of my playthings, or sketches that I was engaged with, which, with six others, I intend to send you next week for yours and my friends’ inspection. ‘A Morning Effect of the Lake of Albano’ is a companion to Wilson’s ‘Evening Effect,’ for my dear friend Tate. I wish it may be found a meet one. I have just prepared a canvas the size of Tate’s ‘Moonlight,’ for an evening effect on another view on the River Tay at Dunkeld, which, if care and study will accomplish it, I intend it to be the best picture I ever painted. I know not how it is, tho’ I am engaged in portraits and made a complete dead colour of a half length yesterday, I find myself continually stealing off and getting to Landscapes.
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby, 17thJanuary, 1793.“My Dear Friend,“I am glad to find, by my friend Tate, the box of Sketches are got safe to hand, and that you approve of them. They ought, as my friend may see by the direction, to have been delivered almost a week ago. I can’t help doing too much to them as sketches, and if any other person than yourself was to have the culling of them, I should certainly charge something more for those that were selected. You are then indebted to me for three 30gs, and if Tate cannot get more for the remaining four, they must go at that price. I am sorry your Brother Hy. did not fix the price for ‘Antigonus,’ as he knew all the circumstances. He was certainly the proper person to have done it, but since it is left to me, I must observe, I have no claim upon him for more than 100gs, as I offered him the other picture for that sum; but in justice to myself I must say it deserves more, considering the pains I took with it, and the charges of the frame, &c., amounting to near £13; but whether he chooses to give me the advanced price, £12Ogs., must be at his option.“Very Sincerely,“JOSHWRIGHT.“I am sorry I cannot fulfil my engagement with Mr.Moreland. Mr.Gisborne does not think himself at liberty to divulge Smith’s mode of washing with water-colours.“To Mr.J. L. Philips.”
“Derby, 17thJanuary, 1793.
“My Dear Friend,
“I am glad to find, by my friend Tate, the box of Sketches are got safe to hand, and that you approve of them. They ought, as my friend may see by the direction, to have been delivered almost a week ago. I can’t help doing too much to them as sketches, and if any other person than yourself was to have the culling of them, I should certainly charge something more for those that were selected. You are then indebted to me for three 30gs, and if Tate cannot get more for the remaining four, they must go at that price. I am sorry your Brother Hy. did not fix the price for ‘Antigonus,’ as he knew all the circumstances. He was certainly the proper person to have done it, but since it is left to me, I must observe, I have no claim upon him for more than 100gs, as I offered him the other picture for that sum; but in justice to myself I must say it deserves more, considering the pains I took with it, and the charges of the frame, &c., amounting to near £13; but whether he chooses to give me the advanced price, £12Ogs., must be at his option.
“Very Sincerely,
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“I am sorry I cannot fulfil my engagement with Mr.Moreland. Mr.Gisborne does not think himself at liberty to divulge Smith’s mode of washing with water-colours.
“To Mr.J. L. Philips.”
“Feby. 26, 1793.“My Dear Sir,“Mr.Wm.Hardman called last night. I showed him the pictures by candle-light, but I don’t think he could see them well. They did not seem to reach his feelings, except a small one of an effect of fire, seen through a dark group of trees, with a large piece of water reflecting the objects about it. Had he not in his possession the cottage, I believe he would have purchased it. ’Tis a new subject, and rather a favourite with me. If there should bean exhibition this year, independent of ye Royal Academy, I perhaps may show it to the public, as also the companion to the ‘Moonlight,’ in my friend Tate’s hands, which, now being near finished, and if I flatter not myself, will be a tolerable picture. ’Tis full of air, and has depth, two necessary requisites for a Landscape.“I have a great inclination to send you this fire piece to look at. I think it would give you pleasure. If Manchester was nearer I certainly would.“How goes Mic. Angelo on? Can you give meproofof your abilities yet?“I often wish I lived with you, that my productions might receive the benefit of your strictures ere they go out into the world, & myself enjoy your friendly conversation; but my lot is cast otherwise. Adieu, my dear friend, and whether near or distant, believe me ever yours,“JOSHWRIGHT.“J. L. Philips.”
“Feby. 26, 1793.
“My Dear Sir,
“Mr.Wm.Hardman called last night. I showed him the pictures by candle-light, but I don’t think he could see them well. They did not seem to reach his feelings, except a small one of an effect of fire, seen through a dark group of trees, with a large piece of water reflecting the objects about it. Had he not in his possession the cottage, I believe he would have purchased it. ’Tis a new subject, and rather a favourite with me. If there should bean exhibition this year, independent of ye Royal Academy, I perhaps may show it to the public, as also the companion to the ‘Moonlight,’ in my friend Tate’s hands, which, now being near finished, and if I flatter not myself, will be a tolerable picture. ’Tis full of air, and has depth, two necessary requisites for a Landscape.
“I have a great inclination to send you this fire piece to look at. I think it would give you pleasure. If Manchester was nearer I certainly would.
“How goes Mic. Angelo on? Can you give meproofof your abilities yet?
“I often wish I lived with you, that my productions might receive the benefit of your strictures ere they go out into the world, & myself enjoy your friendly conversation; but my lot is cast otherwise. Adieu, my dear friend, and whether near or distant, believe me ever yours,
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“J. L. Philips.”
“King Street, Feby. 19, 1794.“My Dear Sir,“The day after you left us I set to work upon the picture of ‘Vesuvius,’ to remove the stiffness of the line of Lava made across it (and which always dissatisfied me), by bringing the trees more over it; but it would not do, for what proved beneficial to the one was injurious to the other, by bringing the groupe of trees & rock much in a line. I have therefore illuminated the ground, over which the Lava is about to pass, very strongly, set fire to the plants & raised a fresh smoke, which here & there passes across the lava, & effectually does the business. I have also increased the quantity & brilliancy of the smoke which arises from the upper surface of the lava, so that the centre of the picture is more lighted up, & the general effect much improved. I have added the forked lightning, which ever attends the dark smoke, & which increases the horror of the subject without disturbing the effect; and on Tuesday I intended putting in ye figures & the finishing touches to your picture, when, alas! I was suddenly seized with the sore throat & fever, a common complaint here. My lungs (a weak part) have suffered much. I have a very bad cough; my frame is much debilitated; the fever is abated. Thank you for your attention (which is ever awake to serve your friends) to ye exhibition business. As they havelong ago thrown me on their shelf, I do not feel inclined to sue for protection, but perhaps when my nerves are more settled I may see it in another light.“Yours most sincerely,“J. W.”
“King Street, Feby. 19, 1794.
“My Dear Sir,
“The day after you left us I set to work upon the picture of ‘Vesuvius,’ to remove the stiffness of the line of Lava made across it (and which always dissatisfied me), by bringing the trees more over it; but it would not do, for what proved beneficial to the one was injurious to the other, by bringing the groupe of trees & rock much in a line. I have therefore illuminated the ground, over which the Lava is about to pass, very strongly, set fire to the plants & raised a fresh smoke, which here & there passes across the lava, & effectually does the business. I have also increased the quantity & brilliancy of the smoke which arises from the upper surface of the lava, so that the centre of the picture is more lighted up, & the general effect much improved. I have added the forked lightning, which ever attends the dark smoke, & which increases the horror of the subject without disturbing the effect; and on Tuesday I intended putting in ye figures & the finishing touches to your picture, when, alas! I was suddenly seized with the sore throat & fever, a common complaint here. My lungs (a weak part) have suffered much. I have a very bad cough; my frame is much debilitated; the fever is abated. Thank you for your attention (which is ever awake to serve your friends) to ye exhibition business. As they havelong ago thrown me on their shelf, I do not feel inclined to sue for protection, but perhaps when my nerves are more settled I may see it in another light.
“Yours most sincerely,
“J. W.”
“Your picture of ‘Vesuvius,’ and one at Dunkeld, would have been at Manchester before now, had not the frames of the pictures which I exhibited been materially damaged at the Academy. Mr.Milbourne has orders to put them into good condition, & send them to you when done.“Derby, June 29, 1794.”
“Your picture of ‘Vesuvius,’ and one at Dunkeld, would have been at Manchester before now, had not the frames of the pictures which I exhibited been materially damaged at the Academy. Mr.Milbourne has orders to put them into good condition, & send them to you when done.
“Derby, June 29, 1794.”
“Derby, Dec. 27, 1794.“My Dear Sir,“Your relation (Mr. N. Philips), to whom I some time ago sold the picture of the ‘City of Florence,’ called upon me last week, & engaged the picture with the ‘Rainbow,’ the ‘Cottage on Fire,’ & the small ‘Sea Storm,’ which I find he intends sending to America. I am sorry the two first leave the Kingdom.“He seems anxious that I should paint him the ‘Siege of Toulon,’ for which he will not exceed 100gs.The scenery must be very complicated, & so many objects & incidents cannot be painted for that sum. I sometime ago refused a like sum for any sized picture I would paint of the ‘Siege of Gibraltar.’“Did you not give me some hopes of seeing drawings by an officer of the engagement at Toulon, or have I dreamt it? Pray inform me soon, as I must satisfy Mr. Philips.“JOSWRIGHT.”
“Derby, Dec. 27, 1794.
“My Dear Sir,
“Your relation (Mr. N. Philips), to whom I some time ago sold the picture of the ‘City of Florence,’ called upon me last week, & engaged the picture with the ‘Rainbow,’ the ‘Cottage on Fire,’ & the small ‘Sea Storm,’ which I find he intends sending to America. I am sorry the two first leave the Kingdom.
“He seems anxious that I should paint him the ‘Siege of Toulon,’ for which he will not exceed 100gs.The scenery must be very complicated, & so many objects & incidents cannot be painted for that sum. I sometime ago refused a like sum for any sized picture I would paint of the ‘Siege of Gibraltar.’
“Did you not give me some hopes of seeing drawings by an officer of the engagement at Toulon, or have I dreamt it? Pray inform me soon, as I must satisfy Mr. Philips.
“JOSWRIGHT.”
“Your letter has poured balsam into my wound. I have heard nothing but humiliating observations on my pictures, which have tended much to the inactivity of my pencil for some time past. What a mere machine am I become, depressed and rendered useless by a little censure, & put into motion again by a little flattery. I really believe my enemies might easily persuade me I have no pretensions to paint. What a thing have these weak nerves made of me.”
“Your letter has poured balsam into my wound. I have heard nothing but humiliating observations on my pictures, which have tended much to the inactivity of my pencil for some time past. What a mere machine am I become, depressed and rendered useless by a little censure, & put into motion again by a little flattery. I really believe my enemies might easily persuade me I have no pretensions to paint. What a thing have these weak nerves made of me.”
“Feby., 1795.“To J. L. Philips,“I am sorry to learn from my friend Tate that he does not acquit himself in the pictures of the Lakes to his expectation. He is acquainted with my principles, such as they are. I wonder he does not with more certainty avail himself of them; but they are different subjects, and I have sometime seen effects in ye country repugnant to common-sense principles, and which I could by no means account for. I have a picture in hand of the sort of Keswick Lake.“Did you pick up much painting knowledge in your late visit to the Captain’s, or only the quackery of the art? Would I had as much strength as the Captain, I flatter myself I would carry the art a great way.”
“Feby., 1795.
“To J. L. Philips,
“I am sorry to learn from my friend Tate that he does not acquit himself in the pictures of the Lakes to his expectation. He is acquainted with my principles, such as they are. I wonder he does not with more certainty avail himself of them; but they are different subjects, and I have sometime seen effects in ye country repugnant to common-sense principles, and which I could by no means account for. I have a picture in hand of the sort of Keswick Lake.
“Did you pick up much painting knowledge in your late visit to the Captain’s, or only the quackery of the art? Would I had as much strength as the Captain, I flatter myself I would carry the art a great way.”
“30 March, 1795.“My Dear Sir,“I am sorry to find Heath still procrastinates. He was to have begun on the ‘Dead Soldier’ in good earnest last Midsummer. Another is approaching fast, & nothing more done to it. I despair seeing it finished, & many of the subscribers to my portion of the prints are dead. Well, patience, as the Italians say, & you have as much need of it as I.“The very severe winter we have had has almost demolished me. Just after Xmas I paid a visit to my friend Gisborne. It was a young trick of me to sally forth at that time of the year, but he tempted me with sending his carriage; and wrapping myself up in Flannels, I thought myself invulnerable. Unfortunately for me it proved otherwise. I have been dreadfully ill ever since. I am now wounded at so many points. I despair of ever being well again. I have had Darwin’s advice, and about a fortnight ago he ordered me to have a hot bath every night, from 94 to 96 degrees of heat, in which I stay half-an-hour. It has certainly braced me, & removed some disagreeable sensations, but I am still too much oppressed to think of handling the pencil, & what is worse I feel not ye least inclination to paint. I am glad to hear my friend Tate succeeds so well in water colors. I dare say when the application of them is well understood, it is pleasant work. Make my best regards to him, to Mr. Philips, and to all my friends, and believe me with much esteem yours most truly,“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“30 March, 1795.
“My Dear Sir,
“I am sorry to find Heath still procrastinates. He was to have begun on the ‘Dead Soldier’ in good earnest last Midsummer. Another is approaching fast, & nothing more done to it. I despair seeing it finished, & many of the subscribers to my portion of the prints are dead. Well, patience, as the Italians say, & you have as much need of it as I.
“The very severe winter we have had has almost demolished me. Just after Xmas I paid a visit to my friend Gisborne. It was a young trick of me to sally forth at that time of the year, but he tempted me with sending his carriage; and wrapping myself up in Flannels, I thought myself invulnerable. Unfortunately for me it proved otherwise. I have been dreadfully ill ever since. I am now wounded at so many points. I despair of ever being well again. I have had Darwin’s advice, and about a fortnight ago he ordered me to have a hot bath every night, from 94 to 96 degrees of heat, in which I stay half-an-hour. It has certainly braced me, & removed some disagreeable sensations, but I am still too much oppressed to think of handling the pencil, & what is worse I feel not ye least inclination to paint. I am glad to hear my friend Tate succeeds so well in water colors. I dare say when the application of them is well understood, it is pleasant work. Make my best regards to him, to Mr. Philips, and to all my friends, and believe me with much esteem yours most truly,
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“May 29 /95.“I wish for my own sake—as well as for your feelings—for I know you participate in the good or ill which attends your friends that I could give a better account of myself. I have now been five months without exercising my pencil, and without a hope that I shall again resume it. I seem to have outlived my art, a reflection, tho’ in no way favourable to the restoration of my health, will continually obtrude itself upon me.“I am glad to hear my good friend has laid hold of his brushes again. Paper and camel hair pencils are better adapted to the amusement of ladies than the pursuit of an artist. Give my love to him, & tell him he should not avail himself of my long silence, the effect only of ill-health. I wish to hear from him.“I understand by your relation ytyou have built a steam house, which is productive beyond credit, & that you are over-run with cucumbers. If this is really the case, pray let 2 or 3 run over to Derby. Am not I very impudent?”
“May 29 /95.
“I wish for my own sake—as well as for your feelings—for I know you participate in the good or ill which attends your friends that I could give a better account of myself. I have now been five months without exercising my pencil, and without a hope that I shall again resume it. I seem to have outlived my art, a reflection, tho’ in no way favourable to the restoration of my health, will continually obtrude itself upon me.
“I am glad to hear my good friend has laid hold of his brushes again. Paper and camel hair pencils are better adapted to the amusement of ladies than the pursuit of an artist. Give my love to him, & tell him he should not avail himself of my long silence, the effect only of ill-health. I wish to hear from him.
“I understand by your relation ytyou have built a steam house, which is productive beyond credit, & that you are over-run with cucumbers. If this is really the case, pray let 2 or 3 run over to Derby. Am not I very impudent?”
“Derby Oct 2nd1795.“My Dear Sir,“I take up my pen with much pleasure to communicate to my dear friends at Manchester, ‘who participate in my welfare,’ that a few days ago, after a truce to my pencil for tendreadful months, I felt the dawn of inclination to resume it, and on Friday last made, with trembling hands, some feeble efforts. Disuse and the loss of much strength has made the employment rather vexatious, but facility will come in proportion to my practice.“I thought I should never have had it in my power to finish the pictures your relative engaged, but they are now within a few hours of being compleated.“The picture of the little elegant bit of scenery at Rydall, which my friend Holland mentioned to you, is not near being finished. The water indeed is further advanced than ye rest of ye picture, for I was keen to produce an effect which I had never seen in painting of shewing the pebbles at the bottom of the water with the broken reflections on its surface. But I have not succeeded to my wish, & Holland, who sees all my works thro’ the most partial medium, has colored his description too highly. So highly finished is that little bit of nature that to do it justice it should be painted upon ye spot.“Your account of the Isle of Man makes me wish to see it. We often see fine shaped rocks than fine coloured ones; the patches of different colours are not large and distinct enough to have effect at a distance. The different hues are produced by small mosses rather than by original colours in the stones.“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby Oct 2nd1795.
“My Dear Sir,
“I take up my pen with much pleasure to communicate to my dear friends at Manchester, ‘who participate in my welfare,’ that a few days ago, after a truce to my pencil for tendreadful months, I felt the dawn of inclination to resume it, and on Friday last made, with trembling hands, some feeble efforts. Disuse and the loss of much strength has made the employment rather vexatious, but facility will come in proportion to my practice.
“I thought I should never have had it in my power to finish the pictures your relative engaged, but they are now within a few hours of being compleated.
“The picture of the little elegant bit of scenery at Rydall, which my friend Holland mentioned to you, is not near being finished. The water indeed is further advanced than ye rest of ye picture, for I was keen to produce an effect which I had never seen in painting of shewing the pebbles at the bottom of the water with the broken reflections on its surface. But I have not succeeded to my wish, & Holland, who sees all my works thro’ the most partial medium, has colored his description too highly. So highly finished is that little bit of nature that to do it justice it should be painted upon ye spot.
“Your account of the Isle of Man makes me wish to see it. We often see fine shaped rocks than fine coloured ones; the patches of different colours are not large and distinct enough to have effect at a distance. The different hues are produced by small mosses rather than by original colours in the stones.
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“Derby, Dec 18th1795.“My Dear Sir,“I am at all times very happy to hear from you, and if at any time there is the appearance of omission, the multiplicity of your avocations make your apology.“I have had too many substantial proofs of your attention to my interest to doubt ye sincerity of your friendship to me. I should be highly to blame, without cause, to deprive myself of so inestimable a blessing.“I have put the last touches to your little finished bit of scenery of ‘Rydal Waterfall,’ which you have commissioned me to send you, which I will do as soon as it is dry enough to pack safely; but, that you may not take it upon the character of my friends, who, as I said before are partial and sanguine, you shall, if it meets not with your entire approbation, have the power of returning it. Your feelings upon the occasion may be different to theirs, and I would not have you buy a pig in a poke. It is a very intricate subject, and I never wished myself out of a wood so much in my life.“I shall continue to work a little almost every day, & if the spasms upon my lungs keep off I hope to gain strength. I cannot describe the pleasure I feel upon resuming the pencil when I am tolerably well.“JOSHWRIGHT.”“I have sent off to Nottingham your kinsman’s pictures, where they are to remain sometime ’ere they are to be sent to America.”
“Derby, Dec 18th1795.
“My Dear Sir,
“I am at all times very happy to hear from you, and if at any time there is the appearance of omission, the multiplicity of your avocations make your apology.
“I have had too many substantial proofs of your attention to my interest to doubt ye sincerity of your friendship to me. I should be highly to blame, without cause, to deprive myself of so inestimable a blessing.
“I have put the last touches to your little finished bit of scenery of ‘Rydal Waterfall,’ which you have commissioned me to send you, which I will do as soon as it is dry enough to pack safely; but, that you may not take it upon the character of my friends, who, as I said before are partial and sanguine, you shall, if it meets not with your entire approbation, have the power of returning it. Your feelings upon the occasion may be different to theirs, and I would not have you buy a pig in a poke. It is a very intricate subject, and I never wished myself out of a wood so much in my life.
“I shall continue to work a little almost every day, & if the spasms upon my lungs keep off I hope to gain strength. I cannot describe the pleasure I feel upon resuming the pencil when I am tolerably well.
“JOSHWRIGHT.”
“I have sent off to Nottingham your kinsman’s pictures, where they are to remain sometime ’ere they are to be sent to America.”
“Derby, 11 Apl., 1796.“Ill-luck ever attends my pursuits. A few days after you left me, I was again visited with an asthmatic fit, which was in a day or two succeeded by a second, whereby I was so debilitated I could not employ my pencil at all for many days, & have not sincefound my exertions equal to the great picture; have therefore given up all thoughts of exhibiting it this year at least, whatever I may be induced another, but, from abuses I have received from the Academy, I never feel very anxious to get among them. They are in general an illiberal set of men, & the less one has to do with ’em the better.“JOSWRIGHT.”
“Derby, 11 Apl., 1796.
“Ill-luck ever attends my pursuits. A few days after you left me, I was again visited with an asthmatic fit, which was in a day or two succeeded by a second, whereby I was so debilitated I could not employ my pencil at all for many days, & have not sincefound my exertions equal to the great picture; have therefore given up all thoughts of exhibiting it this year at least, whatever I may be induced another, but, from abuses I have received from the Academy, I never feel very anxious to get among them. They are in general an illiberal set of men, & the less one has to do with ’em the better.
“JOSWRIGHT.”
Wright painted two pictures for Alderman Boydell’s Shakspeare Gallery, viz:—“Prospero in his cell, showing a visionary spectacle to Ferdinand & Miranda,” for which he received 300 guineas; and “The Storm in the ‘Winter’s Tale,’” for which 140 guineas was paid.
Wright addressed the following letter to the Alderman respecting the former picture:—
“Derby, 12thMarch, 1789.“Sir,“I should have sent you the dimensions of the picture by return of post, but it was till to-day so folded up it could not be measured with any accuracy. The exact size is 12ft. 0¼ in. by 8ft. 6in., to hang horizontally. It will be necessary to have a good straining frame, with the inner edge well rounded off, for if left square it always makes a mark in the picture. The reason I mention a fresh straining or wedging frame is, the one the picture is on has been cut in so many places to accommodate it to my painting-room; it is too weak to use again but for the purpose of painting on, if I should again have occasion for so large a one.“The picture is now finished, unless a fresh eye discover anything in a few days to be corrected. I most heartily unite with you in wishing I may make a conspicuous figure in your exhibition.“The picture by the time you will want it, will, I hope, be dry enough to roll upon a cylinder without damage, which I think the safest way of sending it, for it is much too large to go flat.“I am, Sir,“Your very humble Servt.“JOSEPH WRIGHT.“Mr. Alderman Boydell,“Cheapside,“London.”
“Derby, 12thMarch, 1789.
“Sir,
“I should have sent you the dimensions of the picture by return of post, but it was till to-day so folded up it could not be measured with any accuracy. The exact size is 12ft. 0¼ in. by 8ft. 6in., to hang horizontally. It will be necessary to have a good straining frame, with the inner edge well rounded off, for if left square it always makes a mark in the picture. The reason I mention a fresh straining or wedging frame is, the one the picture is on has been cut in so many places to accommodate it to my painting-room; it is too weak to use again but for the purpose of painting on, if I should again have occasion for so large a one.
“The picture is now finished, unless a fresh eye discover anything in a few days to be corrected. I most heartily unite with you in wishing I may make a conspicuous figure in your exhibition.
“The picture by the time you will want it, will, I hope, be dry enough to roll upon a cylinder without damage, which I think the safest way of sending it, for it is much too large to go flat.
“I am, Sir,
“Your very humble Servt.
“JOSEPH WRIGHT.
“Mr. Alderman Boydell,
“Cheapside,
“London.”
Before Wright painted the Bear in the “Storm,” he wrote to Gilpin for his opinion, who sent him some sketches of Bears (one of which was introduced in the picture), with the following letter:—[45]
“Knightsbridge, Wednesday.“Dear Sir,“I send you the enclosed sketch as soon as possible, that I may have time to make a more finished one if it does not answer your purpose. If it does not, please let me know by return of post, and I will go a Bear hunting to the Tower, or somewhere or other, and sketch one from nature, if possible.... I think with you, that the pursuit is better than the horrid act of tearing.“Your sincere Friend and Servant,“S. GILPIN.”
“Knightsbridge, Wednesday.
“Dear Sir,
“I send you the enclosed sketch as soon as possible, that I may have time to make a more finished one if it does not answer your purpose. If it does not, please let me know by return of post, and I will go a Bear hunting to the Tower, or somewhere or other, and sketch one from nature, if possible.... I think with you, that the pursuit is better than the horrid act of tearing.
“Your sincere Friend and Servant,
“S. GILPIN.”
Hayley, in his life of Romney, thus alludes to Wright and his engagement to paint for Boydell’s Shakspeare Gallery:—“Nov. 4th1786. Mr. Josiah Boydell entertained the little party of friends to the projected Gallery whom he has named in his preface to Shakspeare. I wrote nothing in its favour except a brief sketch, and a letter to engage my friend Wright, of Derby, to paint for the Gallery. My application to Wright was made at the earnest desire of the Alderman.”
It appears that when the time for payment came, Wright was dissatisfied with what Boydell offered to him for his picture of “Ferdinand and Miranda.” Whether Hayley, the poet, who appears to have been the go-between for the painter & Boydell, placed the matter before Wright in such a light that Boydell did not afterwards approve of, it is now impossible to say. Wright, however, wrote the following letter, which drew forth a characteristic reply from Boydell, who adopts the usual plan of “abusing the plaintiff.”
“Derby, July 26th1789.“To Alderman Boydell.“Sir,“I understood by my friend Mr.Hayley, that, forming a Gallery of pictures from the works of Shakespeare was first agitated in a private party, of which he was one; that the artists were to be classed, ye first class to consist of Sir Joshua, Mr.West, Mr.Romney, &c., and your humble servant; that those in that class were to have 300gs.a picture, more or less, according to the size & work they might have in them; and that he was extremely happy to find the artists had entered upon this most laudable work with a spirit & liberality that reflected the highest honour upon them, resolving to sacrifice interest to fame. On these grounds I began and finished my picture upon the largest size then proposed. In the course of executing my picture, which, through ill-health, was much protracted, I learnt from good authority that ye original plan was quite deserted, that you bought pictures of any size (and which were not designed for the Gallery), and that the artists painted their subjects on such sized canvasses as they thought proper, and made the best terms they could with you. This, I have reason to believe, is the case, from what I saw and heard when in Town last. Upon your asking me when in the Gallery (together) what I expected for my picture, I told youthat, being very remote from the scene of business, I was unacquainted with the prices you had given; that I should leave myself to you, not doubting but you would pay me as you had ye rest, upon which, pointing to one of Mr.Northcote’s pictures, you answered, We give him 25Ogs.And, pray, said I, what do you give to Mr.West for his? Oh, replied you, was I to pay all ye artists as I have done Mr.West, I might soon shut up the Gallery. I felt much mortified at this unworthy treatment, for such I cannot but think it, and left you.“Now, Sir, I knew at the time, and have been confirmed in it since, that you gave Sir Joshua 5OOgsfor his small picture, and a very considerable fee besides; also, that you gave Mr.West 5OOgsfor his picture, and yet you were paving the way to offer me a much less sum. Is not my picture as large as Mr.West’s? Has it not equal, nay, more, work in it? Is it not as highly finished? And has not the public spoken as well of it? Then why should you attempt to make a difference in our price? Till you can give me a satisfactory reason why I should take less, I shall certainly expect the same. Had the work been carried on by the artists, with that generous and laudable spirit which my friend Hayley held out to me, I would have scorned to have been behind the most liberal of them; but for me alone to adhere to the first plan would be the highest folly, as I should thereby not only lose the pecuniary advantage, but endanger my reputation, a point which I consider as of far greater moment.“I mentioned the circumstances to some of my friends in Town, & to others since my return into the country, and they all agree that I have strong reasons to complain of your treatment.“I am, Sir,“Your Obedient“JOSHWRIGHT.“P.S.—I heard also when in Town from very respectable Artists that you had agreed to give Mr.Copley 1000gsfor his picture. If so, your conduct in this business is most strange.”
“Derby, July 26th1789.
“To Alderman Boydell.
“Sir,
“I understood by my friend Mr.Hayley, that, forming a Gallery of pictures from the works of Shakespeare was first agitated in a private party, of which he was one; that the artists were to be classed, ye first class to consist of Sir Joshua, Mr.West, Mr.Romney, &c., and your humble servant; that those in that class were to have 300gs.a picture, more or less, according to the size & work they might have in them; and that he was extremely happy to find the artists had entered upon this most laudable work with a spirit & liberality that reflected the highest honour upon them, resolving to sacrifice interest to fame. On these grounds I began and finished my picture upon the largest size then proposed. In the course of executing my picture, which, through ill-health, was much protracted, I learnt from good authority that ye original plan was quite deserted, that you bought pictures of any size (and which were not designed for the Gallery), and that the artists painted their subjects on such sized canvasses as they thought proper, and made the best terms they could with you. This, I have reason to believe, is the case, from what I saw and heard when in Town last. Upon your asking me when in the Gallery (together) what I expected for my picture, I told youthat, being very remote from the scene of business, I was unacquainted with the prices you had given; that I should leave myself to you, not doubting but you would pay me as you had ye rest, upon which, pointing to one of Mr.Northcote’s pictures, you answered, We give him 25Ogs.And, pray, said I, what do you give to Mr.West for his? Oh, replied you, was I to pay all ye artists as I have done Mr.West, I might soon shut up the Gallery. I felt much mortified at this unworthy treatment, for such I cannot but think it, and left you.
“Now, Sir, I knew at the time, and have been confirmed in it since, that you gave Sir Joshua 5OOgsfor his small picture, and a very considerable fee besides; also, that you gave Mr.West 5OOgsfor his picture, and yet you were paving the way to offer me a much less sum. Is not my picture as large as Mr.West’s? Has it not equal, nay, more, work in it? Is it not as highly finished? And has not the public spoken as well of it? Then why should you attempt to make a difference in our price? Till you can give me a satisfactory reason why I should take less, I shall certainly expect the same. Had the work been carried on by the artists, with that generous and laudable spirit which my friend Hayley held out to me, I would have scorned to have been behind the most liberal of them; but for me alone to adhere to the first plan would be the highest folly, as I should thereby not only lose the pecuniary advantage, but endanger my reputation, a point which I consider as of far greater moment.
“I mentioned the circumstances to some of my friends in Town, & to others since my return into the country, and they all agree that I have strong reasons to complain of your treatment.
“I am, Sir,
“Your Obedient
“JOSHWRIGHT.
“P.S.—I heard also when in Town from very respectable Artists that you had agreed to give Mr.Copley 1000gsfor his picture. If so, your conduct in this business is most strange.”
“Cheapside, Aug. 3 /89.“Sir,“I sit down to answer the most extraordinary Letter I ever yet received, wherein you inform me of a great many circumstances that I never heard of concerning the conduct of a work that I thought I was somewhat acquainted with.“You begin your letter by telling me that you understood that I had classed the Painters according to their rank, and you gave me a list of the first class, in which you place your own name. Now, Sir, I never presumed to class the Painters. I leave that to the public, to whose opinion and judgment I bow with great reverence & respect.“At the same time I am free to confess that had I ever presumed to have classed thehistorical painters of this country, perhaps Mr.Wright’s name would not have stood exactly where he has been pleased to place it himself.“In the line of landscape, I confess it would have been a different consideration.“I find it would be too tedious to go through all the ridiculous assertions that your very extraordinary Letter contains. I shall therefore leave you to enjoy your notions, however unfounded, and proceed immediately to business. I never offered you any specific price for your picture. You asked me what I had given for pictures of that size. I told you the prices. You knew that 300 guineas was the utmost stipulated sum, and, in one word, Sir, I will not give you any more.“And this I offer, not so much for the merits of the picture, as that you nor no man may have reason to complain of my want of liberality. You are, indeed, the first that ever has complained on this subject, with what justice I leave the world to judge. When I look at the merits of the picture, it deserves no such sum; for however excellent the landscape part of it may be, the figures are very faulty, and so much out of drawing, that it will give no little trouble to correct it for the engravers.“As to whatever prices I have given, or may hereafter give to any artist, in this or any other undertaking, I shall certainly not consult Mr. Wright, and his attempting to dictate to me on this subject is perfectly ridiculous.“I am, Sir,“Your humble Servant,“JOHN BOYDELL.“Copy, J. R. Harrison.”
“Cheapside, Aug. 3 /89.
“Sir,
“I sit down to answer the most extraordinary Letter I ever yet received, wherein you inform me of a great many circumstances that I never heard of concerning the conduct of a work that I thought I was somewhat acquainted with.
“You begin your letter by telling me that you understood that I had classed the Painters according to their rank, and you gave me a list of the first class, in which you place your own name. Now, Sir, I never presumed to class the Painters. I leave that to the public, to whose opinion and judgment I bow with great reverence & respect.
“At the same time I am free to confess that had I ever presumed to have classed thehistorical painters of this country, perhaps Mr.Wright’s name would not have stood exactly where he has been pleased to place it himself.
“In the line of landscape, I confess it would have been a different consideration.
“I find it would be too tedious to go through all the ridiculous assertions that your very extraordinary Letter contains. I shall therefore leave you to enjoy your notions, however unfounded, and proceed immediately to business. I never offered you any specific price for your picture. You asked me what I had given for pictures of that size. I told you the prices. You knew that 300 guineas was the utmost stipulated sum, and, in one word, Sir, I will not give you any more.
“And this I offer, not so much for the merits of the picture, as that you nor no man may have reason to complain of my want of liberality. You are, indeed, the first that ever has complained on this subject, with what justice I leave the world to judge. When I look at the merits of the picture, it deserves no such sum; for however excellent the landscape part of it may be, the figures are very faulty, and so much out of drawing, that it will give no little trouble to correct it for the engravers.
“As to whatever prices I have given, or may hereafter give to any artist, in this or any other undertaking, I shall certainly not consult Mr. Wright, and his attempting to dictate to me on this subject is perfectly ridiculous.
“I am, Sir,
“Your humble Servant,
“JOHN BOYDELL.
“Copy, J. R. Harrison.”
Notwithstanding the Alderman’s disparaging remarks, Wright painted two other Shaksperian subjects, viz.: “The Tomb Scene in Romeo & Juliet,” and another of the “Storm,” with Antigonus pursued by a bear. The former he never sold; the latter was purchased by Mr. Henry Philips.
Reference to these two pictures will be found in the following correspondence:—
“Derby, June 17th1790.“My dear Friend,“I cannot stomach the application you wish me to make to him, to come forward in my defence. Nor if I could, do I think it would be of any use. Long, who, our friend Tate knows, is his most intimate friend, & whose judgment he holds in the first rank, is intimately connected with the proprietors of the work. Therefore, there is but little room to hope he would do anything to serve me, that would in any wise injure a work they themselves were the first planners of.“I am extremely obliged to you for the very flattering account you have sent me. Things seem to work to our wishes, & the Alderman’s conduct will, I hope, soon be completely dissected. I much wonder that Vasari has not appeared again ere now. Perhaps he is intimidated. There appeared an odd paragraph in one of ye papers a few posts ago: ‘The Prince of Pick-pockets has given instructions to his attorney to prosecute a printer for a libel on his character.’ As yet nothing has appeared that will come under that denomination,I hope.“I would most willingly write to Mr.Heath respecting plates being made from the two pictures, but I hardly know what to propose to him; & if, on account of the Picture of ‘Romeo & Juliet,’ which has been so much decry’d, he should have objections, it might embarrass him to decline it to me. You have had so much trouble on my account, I really am sorry to ask you to write a short letter to sound him in the business; but he would be more explicit to you than me.“J. WRIGHT.”
“Derby, June 17th1790.
“My dear Friend,
“I cannot stomach the application you wish me to make to him, to come forward in my defence. Nor if I could, do I think it would be of any use. Long, who, our friend Tate knows, is his most intimate friend, & whose judgment he holds in the first rank, is intimately connected with the proprietors of the work. Therefore, there is but little room to hope he would do anything to serve me, that would in any wise injure a work they themselves were the first planners of.
“I am extremely obliged to you for the very flattering account you have sent me. Things seem to work to our wishes, & the Alderman’s conduct will, I hope, soon be completely dissected. I much wonder that Vasari has not appeared again ere now. Perhaps he is intimidated. There appeared an odd paragraph in one of ye papers a few posts ago: ‘The Prince of Pick-pockets has given instructions to his attorney to prosecute a printer for a libel on his character.’ As yet nothing has appeared that will come under that denomination,I hope.
“I would most willingly write to Mr.Heath respecting plates being made from the two pictures, but I hardly know what to propose to him; & if, on account of the Picture of ‘Romeo & Juliet,’ which has been so much decry’d, he should have objections, it might embarrass him to decline it to me. You have had so much trouble on my account, I really am sorry to ask you to write a short letter to sound him in the business; but he would be more explicit to you than me.
“J. WRIGHT.”
“My dear Friend,“The two pictures I exhibited last year in the R. Academy of ‘Romeo & Juliet’ and Antigonus in the ‘Storm,’ were certainly painted too dark, sad emblems of my then gloomy mind. I have simplified the back ground of the former, enlarged the parts, and thrown more light into the Tomb, so that Julia is bright without being a spot; & the picture of the ‘Storm,’ I have near gone over the whole; rendering the parts clear & distinct, without weakening the character of Gloominess, and, if a man may be allowed to judge & speak of his own works, they are much improved indeed. I wish Heath was to see ’em now. I think he would like them, & perhaps indulge us with plates from them. I have a strange wish to see them well engraved as they are, though unworthy of adding to Boydell’s collection. I intended to have exhibited them at the Lyceum, but they[46]have quarrelled amongst themselves and don’t make one. Do you think Macklin would hang them in his room a month or two, for I wish to have them better seen by the publick than they have been. I communicate this to you to judge of, because I well know you regard both my interests & honour. I have heard nothing from Macklin respecting my painting for him. Tom Tate some time ago told me that Rogers, of Liverpool, who is concerned in the work, asked him if he thought, upon proper application being made, I would undertake any subjects, for it was much their wishes that I should be concerned. Macklin used me querely in his first scheme, & his application, if he does not wish to engage me, will now come with an ill grace.“JOSWRIGHT.“St. Ellens,“14thFeby., /91.”
“My dear Friend,
“The two pictures I exhibited last year in the R. Academy of ‘Romeo & Juliet’ and Antigonus in the ‘Storm,’ were certainly painted too dark, sad emblems of my then gloomy mind. I have simplified the back ground of the former, enlarged the parts, and thrown more light into the Tomb, so that Julia is bright without being a spot; & the picture of the ‘Storm,’ I have near gone over the whole; rendering the parts clear & distinct, without weakening the character of Gloominess, and, if a man may be allowed to judge & speak of his own works, they are much improved indeed. I wish Heath was to see ’em now. I think he would like them, & perhaps indulge us with plates from them. I have a strange wish to see them well engraved as they are, though unworthy of adding to Boydell’s collection. I intended to have exhibited them at the Lyceum, but they[46]have quarrelled amongst themselves and don’t make one. Do you think Macklin would hang them in his room a month or two, for I wish to have them better seen by the publick than they have been. I communicate this to you to judge of, because I well know you regard both my interests & honour. I have heard nothing from Macklin respecting my painting for him. Tom Tate some time ago told me that Rogers, of Liverpool, who is concerned in the work, asked him if he thought, upon proper application being made, I would undertake any subjects, for it was much their wishes that I should be concerned. Macklin used me querely in his first scheme, & his application, if he does not wish to engage me, will now come with an ill grace.
“JOSWRIGHT.
“St. Ellens,
“14thFeby., /91.”