William Spence
1 portrait by William Raddon
© National Portrait Gallery, London
William Spence
by and published by William Raddon, published by Charles Edward Wagstaff, after John James Masquerier
line engraving, published 1 June 1839
8 7/8 in. x 6 1/8 in. (227 mm x 154 mm) plate size; 13 7/8 in. x 9 1/2 in. (354 mm x 240 mm) paper size
Given by Westminster Public Library
Reference Collection
NPG D41996
Sitterback to top
- William Spence (baptised 1782-1860), Political economist and entomologist. Sitter in 2 portraits.
Artistsback to top
- John James Masquerier (1778-1855), Painter. Artist or producer associated with 33 portraits, Sitter associated with 1 portrait.
- William Raddon (active 1817-died 1848), Engraver. Artist or producer associated with 8 portraits.
- Charles Edward Wagstaff (1808-1850), Engraver. Artist or producer associated with 44 portraits.
Placesback to top
- Place made: United Kingdom: England, London (10 Cumberland Terrace, Bristol; 14 Speldhurst Street, Burton Crescent, London)
Events of 1839back to top
Current affairs
The Bedchamber crisis strains relations between the government and the monarchy, after Queen Victoria refuses to dismiss her Whig-appointed ladies of the bedchamber at the request of the new, Conservative Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel. Peel resigns and Melbourne returns as Prime Minister.The Grand National is first held at the Aintree race course, won by the horse Lottery, and the first Henley Royal Regatta, the rowing event, is held on the Thames.
Art and science
The French and British scientists Louis Daguerre and William Henry Fox Talbot separately publicise their experiments with the new form of photography.The prolific journalist Harriet Martineau publishes her three decker novel Deerbrook, the story of middle class country life.
International
The first Opium War with China is sparked after the British government refuses to try six British soldiers accused of killing a Chinese man protecting a temple from looters. Relations were strained as Britain had promoted the drug opium in China to boost trade. Winning the war, Britain secured vital trading rights.African captives aboard the Spanish ship La Amistad revolt, resulting in a highly publicised court case.
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