The Cotman Collection | 25

The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

Archive: SDK Sydney Decimus Kitson Archive
Reference Number: SDK/1/3/1/2
Page: 25


  • Description

    Francis Cholmeley comments to John Sell Cotman on his work on 24th February 1811.

    Transcript of letter to John Sell Cotman from Francis Cholmeley, Brandsby.

    Date: 24/02/1811

  • Transcription

    way thither. He admired Croyland that you sent me so much and thought his friends in the North would do so too, that I gave it him in hopes it might help to propagate subscriptions. I shall be most truly happy if your work answers and think it need only be known to make it do so. I am glad you have at last written to Sir Harry and am sorry you deferred it so long. He deserves to be considered a patron of the art, and it flatters him to do so. He tells me when he called at Munn’s they had not got your specimens yet. In my critique on what you sent I have only my own judgement to go upon, and therefore I submit my remarks with unfeigned hesitation. I think by the dates you improve as you go on. There is a want of delicacy and effect I think in some of the earlier ones, particularly some Gothic arches (I believe a Norfolk ruin) and some in Rivaulx (sic), though not so much. I particularly admire the Refectory door which as a Work of art I prefer to any. The Manor Door is also very good and Rembrandtish but some of the doors are rather coarse. Croyland is good but Howden, alas! though excellent in other respects not only totters but tumbles. Something must be done to it. On reading over my critique I find it very severe, but you will appreciate my motives, and forgive its openness and probably want of taste. My Uncle in a letter some time ago mentioned etchings on the Thames by Cook as beautifully delicate. They are not in York. Cuitt’s of Chester I have got and think them very good. It strikes me that your’s (sic) would be more likely to attract if finished like pictures as Cuitt’s are than having only the character of pencil sketches as they now have a good deal. Indeed I think you trasnfer yourself on to copper wonderfully. My Wife

Francis Cholmeley comments to John Sell Cotman on his work on 24th February 1811.