Reference code
JU/10/217
Title
L Clennell, 33 Penton Place, London [to Thomas Ranson], Artist, at Mr Lamberts Engraver, Newcastle on Tyne, Northumberland
Date
21 Jul 1816
Level
Item
Extent & medium
1 piece
Historical Background
Clennell commenced a group portrait of the banquet at London's Guildhall in 1814, which was supposed to mark the end of the Naploeonic Wars. He became depressed in 1817, with the work still unfinished, and thereafter descended into insanity.
Content Description
Clennell mentions a miserable day trip he and his wife had taken to Richmond. He cautions Ranson about making a work he had on hand too large. Clennell says his picture goes on very well, and he visits Westminster every day. He describes himself, with emphasis, as "steady", but is now "as sick as a dog." He passes on some items of domestic news and asks to be remembered to
[Thomas] Bewick.
Physical Characteristics
Hole where wax seal has been removed, with resultant loss of text.