JOHN RAPHAEL SMITH (BRITISH 1752-1812)
Captain William Hotham, circa 1806
Inscribed on verso in Painted in April 1806 at Bath by J. R. Smith of 33 Monmouth Street, London
Pastel
18¼ x 14¼in. (46.5 x 36.5cm.)

Provenance: Dominic Winter, British & Continental Picture Sale, 3 Dec 2008, lot 145

Admiral Sir William Hotham, GCB (1772-1848) came from a distinguished military and naval family. He served actively throughout the Napoleonic Wars including the Battle of Camperdown in 1797, for which he was awarded the naval gold medal depicted in this portrait. His ship, the Adamant (50), was also one of the very few not to mutiny at the Nore a few weeks before this battle. Whilst blockading Toulon his health suffered to the extent he resigned his command in September 1803 and he came ashore in June 1804 to marry, not returning to sea until 1808. Taking the 'cure' in Bath would have been a normal part of Georgian recuperation and many portrait artists set up studios to meet demand, the date of 1806 falls neatly into this middle of this period on half pay. He returned to semi-active service and commanded the Sea Fencibles off Hull and then the Royal Yacht Royal Sovereign which he relinquished in 1814. Thereafter he became a Gentleman at Court and a knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath in 1840; He died at New Windsor in 1848 by when he had risen to the rank of a full Admiral.

Condition Report
Rubbed lower left on chair;

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.