Beschreibung
160 ALsS, ANs & telegrams, all but one laid on to rectos only of a 4to album. Contemp. full red crushed morocco over heavy boards, elaborate gilt borders, lettered 'Letters of Congratulation.' on front board, raised gilt bands, compartments ruled & dec. in gilt; a little rubbed, corners bumped. There are two versions of Lucas' bookplate, one dated 1895, and a printed quote from Gilbert mounted on to the inner board on 'the influence of pictures'. The artist's own elaborately bound collection of congratulatory missives received on his election as an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1886. One earlier letter informs him of his acceptance as a member of the Institute of Painters in Water Colours in May 1877. The letters, often deeply affectionate, are from family, friends (Edmund Gosse), fellow artists (Linley Sambourne, John Tenniel, Marcus Stone), his suppliers, members of St Martins School of Art, from the Royal Academy to prepare his diploma, various publishers, and even his banker. A notably long and gushing letter comes from the artist Arthur Brandish Holte: '. I can tell you that it gives me joy to the bottom of my heart to be able to congratulate you even as much as tho' you were my son'. 'Doubtless you will have many who will write you kindly letters, but I venture to think that there are very few who have known you as long as I have and who knew you when you were "Little Jack".' Gosse, the English poet, author and critic, writes to Lucas the day after his election: 'Pray accept my cordial congratulations on the result of last night's election. It recalls to me our talk last summer under the elms of Trinity. I hear your closest rival was W. B. Richard'. John Seymour Lucas, 1849-1923, was a historical and portrait painter, as well as an accomplished theatrical costume designer. Fascinated by art from a young age, 'Jack' as he was affectionately known, was originally trained as a woodcarver, before being taught art by his uncle, the society portraitist John Lucas. He entered first the St. Martin's Lane Art School and later the Royal Academy Schools. Here he met fellow artist Marie Cornelissen from France, whom he married in 1877. Lucas' artistic education included extensive travels around Europe, particularly Holland and Spain, where he studied the Flemish and Spanish masters. He first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1872, was elected an associate member in 1886, and became a full Royal Academician in 1898. As a costume designer of note, he worked for Henry Irving and Ellen Terry. Lucas co-founded the Kernoozer's Club to promote the study and collection of historical costume and armour. Letters from a number of its members, on distinctive headed paper, are included in this album. Bestandsnummer des Verkäufers 85233
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