Robert Browning

after Field Talfourd
collotype, (1859)
12 3/4 in. x 9 1/4 in. (324 mm x 234 mm) plate size; 18 1/8 in. x 13 in. (460 mm x 329 mm) paper size
Reference Collection
NPG D32236

Sitterback to top

Robert Browning (1812-1889), Poet; husband of Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Sitter in 53 portraits.

Artistback to top

Field Talfourd (1815-1874), Painter. Artist or producer associated with 12 portraits.

Events of 1859back to top

Current affairs

Formation of the first Liberal cabinet, following the dissolution of Parliament in light of the Liberal and opposition member Lord Russell's introduction of a resolution arguing for widening the franchise, carried because the Conservatives, the ruling party, only have a minority. Palmerston holds a meeting of Whigs, Peelites and Radicals, from which the Liberal Party is formed, and the Queen later invites him to become Prime Minister.

Art and science

Charles Darwin's The Origin of the Species is published, in which he sets out his theory of evolution based on the process of natural selection, species mutation, and survival of the fittest.
The engineer Joseph Bazalgette begins work on constructing the London sewerage system, following the 'Big Stink' of the preceding summer. Bazalgette's system, now extended, continues to serve London.

International

Outbreak of war between an alliance of France and Italian nationalists, and Austria. Napoleon III signs an armistice with Austria. However, pressure from Britain, supporting Italian unification to counterweight French and Austrian influence, leads to success for Italian nationalists.
The first oil well is drilled in America, after Edwin Drake's discovery in Titusville, Pennsylvania, transforming a quiet farming region into Oil Creek.

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