Classical Landscape with Figures c.1800-7
Oil on canvas | 63.5 x 76 x 1.5 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 405167
-
Olivia Wilmot married the marine painter, John Thomas Serres, in 1791 though the couple separated in 1802. In 1817 Olivia Serres advanced the claim that she was the illegitimate daughter of George III’s brother, Henry Frederick, Duke of Cumberland (1745-90). This and other indiscretions lead to her banishment from court and that of her husband. She died in debt, though her daughter continued to style herself Princess Lavinia of Cumberland and Duchess of Lancaster. This is one of a pair of idealised landscapes (OM 1082-3, 405167-9) presented by the artist to George IV in 1807. A fisherman with a woman and a dog by the side of a lake in a wooded landscape; on the right, ruined masonry lies amidst the foliage; in the background, an extensive landscape with a classical bridge in the middle distance.
Provenance
Presented to George IV; recorded in store at Carlton House in 1816 (no 219) and 1819 (no 372); at Windsor Castle in 1858 (Room 178)
-
Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
-
Medium and techniques
Oil on canvas
Measurements
63.5 x 76 x 1.5 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external)
107.2 x 120.8 x 17.5 cm (frame, external)
Category
Object type(s)
Subject(s)