Sepia print
Category
Photographs
Date
Unknown
Materials
Photographic paper and paper
Measurements
50 x 50 mm; 200 mm (Height); 126 mm (Width)
Collection
Tyntesfield, North Somerset
NT 27411.147
Summary
Top left; sepia photograph of whiskered gentleman. Bottom left; letter on folded sheet of cream paper with mourning edge, dated April 16 1875.
Full description
At top left; a small head and shoulders photograph of a gentleman. Beneath this; a letter on four sides of a folded sheet of cream paper. The first side is black edged. Printed heading; 31, late 20, Spring Gardens, London, S.W April 16: 1875 My Dear Sir When(?) on farming(?) at Brindley farm I found an estimate for the Gloucester Font, some years since I think it was about £500 but without the steps, which is marble and worth about £100 - They have a fine block of dark red serpentine which has been in their hands for a few years and is consequently well seasoned. It is, they say sound and trust worthy. I differ from Mr. Gibbs in thinking the dark colour an objection. On the contrary I think it an invaluable element of dignity and Grandeur. That at Winchester, which I had partly in my eye while designing it, is absolutely black and fit & looks noble. While among all the fonts I have had made the grandest in effect are the very few in which Serpentine alone has been used. No deep or detached carving is wanted in this style. Yours very faithfully Geo Gilbert [-----] The Revd Canon Freilenz(?) Farmer L Brindley will carry it out (polish every crevice(?)) for £500. Could now the [----] find the steps?
Provenance
Purchase from the estate of the late Lord Wraxall with the assistance of the NHMF and donations from members and supporters.