Hawthornes Antiques

Description

A detailed and intriguing portrait of an early 19th century lady.

Exectuted in oil on a wooden panel within a gilt painted frame.

To the verso a letter claiming this painting to have been completed by the hand of Sir David Wilkie. This letter is written in beautiful copper plate writing but is not easy to decipher. We believe the start of this note to read as......

My dear Mary
The portrait of old Mrs Nursey by Wilkie was purchased by ......... ...........
White of B....ford West before
Wilkies death for .......... .......
...... ..... ....... it was painted by
Wilkie for the

Our research has uncovered that Wilkie did visit a friend, Perry Nursey at his home the Grove, Little Bealings In 1816-18-22 and 23. While on these visits Wilkie and Nursey painted together with Nursey learning by copying Wilkie. Perry Nursey was an artist, not of the quality or skill of Wilkie and was more noted for his landscapes not portraits.

Perry Nursey’s Mother was Catherine 1742-1827. This painting does seem to show a lady of approx 80 years of age which would fit with the dates of their meetings.

In 1830 Nursey exhibits a painting of a lady 87 years of age.

To the left verso of the frame we find another label. This reads...

CIS GRAHAM MOON, BART
deceased late of 35 Portman Square
APRIL 13, 1872
SIR D. WILKIE R.A.
Mrs Nurse

This information translate as an inventory label upon the death of Francis Graham Moon, Baronet, 1796-1871. He was a print seller and publisher. Known to have dealings with Wilkie.

As far back as 1872 this portrait was believed to be a Wilkie, the letter accompanying is more than likely to predate this.

Could this be a Wilkie or completed by a follower of the artist? All enquiries or viewing welcomed.

Condition report, evidence of crazing to the darker areas of the painting. Retouching of areas to the face, bonnet and shoulder area.