Sir William Leman, 2nd Bt of Northaw, Hertfordshire (d.1741)
William Aikman (Cairnie 1682 - London 1731)
Category
Art / Oil paintings
Date
circa 1729 - 1732
Materials
Oil on canvas
Measurements
1388 x 1465 mm
Place of origin
England
Order this imageCollection
Blickling Hall, Norfolk
NT 355566
Caption
It is not entirely clear why Leman is shown in this gallery of portraits at Blickling. It seems probable, however, that it is because the Lemans held considerable property in Suffolk, notably the manors of Brampton and Wenhaston. The founder of the family’s fortunes, Sir John Leman, Lord Mayor of London in 1616, had acquired their first properties in the county. A view of the piazza of Covent Garden can be seen through the arched opening in the portrait. It is unlikely that Leman lived there, since by this date it was no longer a respectable address. It is possible, however, that he was in some way connected with Christopher Rich’s project of building a theatre there, which was eventually opened in 1732. Leman married Anna Margaretta Brett, who had been the first English mistress of George I.
Summary
Oil painting on canvas, Sir William Leman, 2nd Bt of Northaw, Hertfordshire (d.1741) by William Aikman (Forfar 1682 – London 1731), circa 1729. A full-length portrait, standing, taking snuff. Full wig. Blue velvet coat with white cravat, shirt and cuffs. Pale blue hose, black shoes with gold buckles. He stands on a stone tiled floor, table at right with red velvet cover, and red drapery to left. View of the Piazza in Covent Garden in right background. Leman held considerable property in Suffolk.
Provenance
Bequeathed with the hall and contents by Philip,11th Marquess of Lothian (1882-1940)
Credit line
Blickling Hall, The Lothian Collection (National Trust)
Makers and roles
William Aikman (Cairnie 1682 - London 1731), artist