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W.B. Richmond, 123 via Felice, Rome, to Julia Richmond

RA Collection: Archive

Reference code

RI/1/29

Title

W.B. Richmond, 123 via Felice, Rome, to Julia Richmond

Date

[30 Mar 1866]

Level

Item

Extent & medium

2 pieces

Content Description

He reminisces of the previous year's Good Friday, the last spent with Charlotte. After attending service he walked in the campagna to Nano's [Nasoni] tomb, from where [George Richmond's] Roman frescoes were sourced. He found a destitute family there and describes the visible paintings, asserting that an execavation would fine more. Sketches elements of the design, also sketches the general location of the tomb. Describes attending the Misere at St. Peter's (was bored by Gregorian chant) and then taking a moonlit walk to the Colosseum and Constantine's basilica. Is impressed by the creative use of light in the ceremonial aspecs of Catholic worship. A friend was robbed of £14 by a monk.

He has nearly finished his fresco, but he will have to leave it as it is too heavy and fragile to move, a local sculptor will have it to set into his wall. He will next copy Raphael's "Boy in the Academy". The Aldobrandini Marraige has made a great impression on him, but he will copy the fresco of the Girl leaning on a ball. Describes his response to the Etruscan Museum.

He is being tormented by fleas. Recollections of Charlotte.

Physical Characteristics

The letter is held together by nasty sticky tape.