Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt

by Sir Francis Leggatt Chantrey
marble bust, 1841, based on a work of 1820
30 3/4 in. x 20 1/2 in. (780 mm x 520 mm) overall
Transferred from Tate Gallery, 1957
Primary Collection
NPG 993

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Chantrey's admiration for the famous poet and novelist led him 'to ask him to sit for me … the only time I ever recollect having asked a similar favour of any one'. The original bust was executed in 1820 and given to Scott in 1828 as 'a token of esteem'. Contemporaries considered it a fine, good-humoured likeness and Scott was particularly impressed by Chantrey's use of modern details - like the tartan cape - which updated classical tradition without overstepping the timeless requirements of a portrait in marble.

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  • NPG Ax138001: Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt (includes the portrait)

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Current affairs

George III dies at Windsor Castle on 29 January and George IV ascends to the throne.
'Trial of Queen Caroline' in the House of Lords; Parliament drops the Bill which was to legitimise a divorce between Caroline and George IV.
Cato Street Conspiracy to assassinate the cabinet discovered. Arthur Thistlewood and fellow conspirators are hung.

Art and science

Sir Thomas Lawrence becomes President of the Royal Academy.
Astronomical Society is set up by John Herschel and Charles Babbage.
First iron steamship is launched.

International

Actor, Edmund Kean goes on a successful tour of America after making his name at the Drury Lane Theatre.
Revolutions begin in Spain, Portugal and Naples.
The famous ancient Greek statue of the Venus de Milo is rediscovered on the Island of Melos and purchased by the Louvre in Paris.

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