AN EARLY 19TH-CENTURY MONUMENTAL OAK LEAF FRAME MADE FROM VICTORY TIMBER

with indistinct label on reverse stating: “…This frame is made of the timbers of the Victory…”, later annotated: “The Gift of Lady Puleston to Charles Watkin [Wynne Eyton] Albrighton Hall June 20^th 1840”, overall measurements -- 24 x 31 x 3½in. (61 x 79 x 9cm.), containing a mezzotint of Nelson after John Hoppner, published 9th January 1806 and laid on canvas

Provenance: Probably Colonel Sir Richard Puleston (1765-1840) of Albrighton Hall, Shropshire. His wife, Emma, Lady Puleston (1781-1849). Her gift to Charles Watkin Wynne Eyton (c.1799-1870), rector of Shocklach in Cheshire and executor to Sir Richard Puleston.

Sir Richard Puleston was an admirer and close friend of Emma, Lady Hamilton. He supported her during her confinement for debt in 1813 and assisted in her subsequent escape to France. In their highly charged correspondence, Puleston described himself to Emma 'as among millions, your bequeathed Guardian and Protector' (Flora Fraser, Beloved Emma (1986) 356). Puleston’s estate was situated near to Emma’s birthplace in Cheshire suggesting an earlier acquaintance. He may have acquired this print of Nelson―published on the day of the Admiral’s state funeral and heavily framed in Victory timber―from the sales of Emma’s possessions in 1813.

Condition Report

Oak frame in very good overall condition, no losses, mezzotint laid on canvas with some losses, label on reverse worn and hard to decipher in full.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.