, Thomas Gainsborough, to Sir Joshua [Reynolds]

Dear Sir Joshua

I am just to write what I fear you
will not read after lying in a dying state for 6 months
The extreem affection which I’m informd
of by a friend which Sir Joshua has expressd induces me to beg a last favor, which
is to come once under my Roof and look at my things, my
wood man you never saw, if what I ask more[?] is not
disagreable to your feeling that I may have the honor
to speak to you I can from a sincere Heart say that
I always admired and sincerely loved Sir Joshua Reynolds

Thos Gainsborough

Thomas Gainsborough, to Sir Joshua [Reynolds]

RA Collection: Archive

Archive context

Showing item 16 of 17 in this group

Reference code

GAI/16

Title

Thomas Gainsborough, to Sir Joshua [Reynolds]

Date

[1788]

Level

Item

Extent & medium

1 piece

Content Description

After lying in a dying state for six months he has heard from a friend of Sir Joshua's regard. He invites Reynolds to visit and see his works, The Woodman he never saw. Should this wish be agreable to Reynolds he asserts that he always admired and sincerely loved Sir Joshua Reynolds.

Annotated by Reynolds, "Gainsborough when dying".

Acquisition Details

Purchased in 1901.