The Scotsman John Phillip’s evocative depictions of Spain earnt him the nickname ‘Spanish Phillip’. Here two illiterate young women have come to use the services of Juan Moráles, a streetside writer of letters and memorials. The beautiful woman on the left is dressed in traditional maja costume and her secretive pose suggests that she may be dictating a love letter.

Purchased by Prince Albert and presented to Queen Victoria at Christmas 1854

No. 69