Thomas Erskine, 1st Baron Erskine

1 portrait of Thomas Erskine, 1st Baron Erskine

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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Thomas Erskine, 1st Baron Erskine

by and published by William Sharp, after Richard Cosway
line engraving, published 2 May 1791
9 5/8 in. x 6 5/8 in. (243 mm x 167 mm) plate size; 12 7/8 in. x 9 1/8 in. (326 mm x 231 mm) paper size
Bequeathed by (Frederick) Leverton Harris, 1927
Reference Collection
NPG D15331

Sitterback to top

Artistsback to top

  • Richard Cosway (1742-1821), Miniature painter. Artist or producer associated with 101 portraits, Sitter in 16 portraits.
  • William Sharp (1749-1824), Engraver. Artist or producer associated with 73 portraits, Sitter in 2 portraits.

Placesback to top

Events of 1791back to top

Current affairs

Thomas Paine publishes his inflammatory and widely read Rights of Man in response to Edmund Burke's Reflections on the Revolution in France of the previous year. The work advocates radical revolution and prompts a trial for seditious libel that takes place in his absence.
The Catholic Relief Act is passed, repealing the most severe penal laws.

Art and science

Robert Burns publishes Tam O'Shanter, combining the Scottish vernacular with the formal traditions of classical English poetry and exploring radical ideas of freedom.
The Observer newspaper is founded.
The Ordnance Survey is set up to prepare detailed maps of the country.

International

Mozart composes The Magic Flute.
The Declaration of the Rights of Man establishes liberal freedoms in France
The French Constitution is passed by the National Assembly.
Louis XVI flees Paris with his family but is captured at Varennes.
William Pitt declares Britain will remain neutral in any war against France.

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