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Study for 'Patrons and Lovers of Art'

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Study for 'Patrons and Lovers of Art'

by Pieter Christoffel Wonder
oil on canvas, circa 1830
21 5/8 in. x 19 in. (549 mm x 483 mm)
Given by Edward Joseph, 1888
Primary Collection
NPG 795

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This portraitback to top

This is a preliminary study for a painting of an imaginary gallery populated by the leading art collectors and patrons of the day. A more finished study for the same painting hangs alongside.
Seated is George Wyndham, 3rd Earl of Egremont (1751-1857) who is best known for his association with Turner at Petworth House in Sussex. He was a significant patron of contemporary artists and a founder of the British Institution in 1805. Standing to the left in profile is the MP Sir Robert Peel (1788-1850), then Home Secretary, who was an important art patron, particularly of Lawrence. Standing with his arms folded is David Wilkie (1785-1841), the only artist in the imaginary gallery. He was a friend of Wonder and the leading genre painter of the period.

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Subjects & Themesback to top

Events of 1830back to top

Current affairs

George IV dies at Windsor on 26 June; William IV succeeds to the throne.
Duke of Wellington resigns as Prime Minister to be succeeded by Earl Grey.
'Captain Swing' disturbances among agricultural districts in southern England. Taking their name from a mythical leader, hundreds of labourers break the threshing machines that threaten their winter employment.

Art and science

Liverpool and Manchester Railway opens; MP William Huskisson is run down by a train and killed at the inaugural ceremony.
William Cobbett publishes Rural Rides; a nostalgic tribute to the English countryside which expresses dismay at the sweeping changes taking place.

International

July Revolution in France overthrows the Bourbon dynasty. Charles X goes into exile in England and Louis Philippe, Duc d'Orleans is proclaimed King by the Chamber of Deputies who fear European opposition to the declaration of a second Republic.

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