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Old Masters & 19th Century European Art
|
- Sale 6335
Live
| Chicago
Apr 29 | 10:00 AM CDT
Live
| Chicago
Sale 6335
| Chicago
| Chicago
Estimate$3,000 – $5,000
Provenance:
John Kemble
Fanny Kemble, niece of the above
Sarah Butler, daughter of the above
Owen Wister, son of the above
Thence by descent, Private Collection, Mainline, Philadelphia
Literature:
Kenneth Garlick, Sir Thomas Lawrence: A complete catalogue of the oil paintings, Oxford, 1989, p. 216.
Lot Note:
The present large, full-length portrait depicts John Philip Kemble in the role of Hamlet. It is based on the original version from 1801 painted by Sir Thomas Lawrence, now in the Tate, London. Kemble was one of the most successful English actors of his time. This painting shows him in the starring role of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. It is a version of one of four large canvases that Lawrence painted of Kemble in various dramatic roles. The actor was also the uncle of the actress Fanny Kemble Butler.
Sir Thomas Lawrence scholar, Kenneth Garlick, mentions this portrait specifically in his research on the original at the Tate, stating, “There are other recorded versions. Those which have the best claim to be autograph or studio are probably that which descended from Fanny Kemble..." (Garlick, Sir Thomas Lawrence: A complete catalogue of the oil paintings, Oxford, 1989, p. 216)
Framed: 74 x 53 x 3 inches.
The relined canvas is in overall fair condition. Craquelure present throughout the work with significant lines across stretcher marks. Some light scuffing to canvas, most notable at upper right edge and at lower center under figure. Scattered spots of apparent soiling present across lower left corner. Under UV some evidence of cosmetic retouching present, a heavy green varnish inhibits a thorough reading. Please see specialist photos for details.
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Madalina Lazen
VP Head of Department, Old Masters & 19th Century European Art
