David WILKIE (1785-1841)

Autograph Letter Signed (“David Wilkie”) to the French artist Baron Gérard, a letter of introduction for his sister, who wishes to be “allowed to see and admire” his paintings.
1 page 8vo in French with integral address leaf, London, 4 October 1834.

Trans: “The kindness you showed me during my visits to Paris encourage me to take the liberty of introducing my sister, Mad[emoise]lle. Wilkie who is accompanied by my friends, Sir Peter Laurie and Lady Laurie for whom I would like to obtain the favour of being allowed to see and admire that which the World admires, your works, and also to bring back to me news of your health . . .”
It is astonishing that Baron Gérard’s name is not better known today, although many would immediately recognize his pictures which have been widely reproduced. As a portraitist, he produced a magnificent portrait of Napoleon in his coronation robes, as well as portraits of most of Napoleon’s family and inner circle and one of the best-known portraits of Madame Récamier.
David Wilkie travelled extensively throughout Europe after the end of the Napoleonic Wars, and his discoveries in France and Italy had a profound effect on his later style.
Sir Peter Laurie who accompanied Wilkie’s sister on her travels was a banker, politician and prison reformer who also served as Lord Mayor of London.

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