Letter to William, 2nd Earl of Dartmouth [Bath 18 April 1771] framed with photo of the portrait

The second Earl of Dartmouth, William Legge, was a statesman and philanthrope. He commissioned a portrait of his wife, Frances Catherine Nicholl, to Gainsborough but her dress was a contentious matter between him and the artist. Gainsborough defends his depiction of her in a contemporary dress, contrary to the classicizing look other painters – like Reynolds- gave to their sitters. He boasted about his ability to give a true likeness to his portraits, which can only be achieved by avoiding “scaramouches” dresses.

Purchased with donations and a grant given by the Victoria and Albert Museum Purchase Grant Fund, July 1973