York Commission Warehouse (Mary Anne Clarke (née Thompson); Domenico Corri)

Sittersback to top

• Mary Anne Clarke (née Thompson) (1776-1852), Mistress of the Duke of York. Sitter in 7 portraits.
• Domenico Corri (1746-1825), Musical composer. Sitter in 1 portrait.

Artistback to top

• Charles Williams (active 1797-1830), Etcher. Artist associated with 4 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Published shortly after Colonel Wardle had exposed the army commissions scandal in the House of Commons, this satire shows Mrs Clarke with a price list for the sale of commissions. On the right is her intermediary, Domenico Corri, a music master; above him hangs upside down the Duke of York's portrait. The Duke was accused of making promotions on Mrs Clarke's recommendation and he was obliged to step down as Commander-in-Chief.

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Group portraits
• Hats and head-attire
• Making music
• Words and inscriptions