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William Somerville

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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William Somerville

by Sir Francis Leggatt Chantrey
pencil, circa 1830
20 in. x 13 3/8 in. (508 mm x 340 mm)
Given by Mrs George Jones, 1871
Primary Collection
NPG 316a(113)

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Somerville was the husband to scientist Mary Somerville, and a military surgeon and physician to the Royal Hospital, Chelsea (1819-38). This is a rare example of one of Chantrey's drawings showing a sitter in three-quarter profile, and does not appear to be connected to a marble bust. Chantrey sometimes made drawings simply to record the appearance of friends or visitors to his studio.

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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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