Condition: Used
Condition Notes: Good antique condition. The engraving shows some signs of age-related foxing and discoloration, as is common with prints of this era. The frame is a period piece with a dark wood finish and some gold gilt trim, showing wear consistent with its age. The back of the frame is the original cardboard with handwritten family history, making it a key part of the item's value. The label on the back from the "Army & Navy Co-operative Society, Ltd." further authenticates its age and origin.
Brand: Unbranded
Type: Art Print
Colour: Black
Material: Paper
Subject: Portrait
Time Period Produced: 1850-1899
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Artist: W. A. Sawyer
Title: Mrs. Murray
Original/Licensed Reprint: Licensed Reprint
Framing: Framed
Style: Portraiture
This is a remarkable and historically significant antique engraving of Mrs. Murray, identified on the back as Isabella Strange, the wife of the Hon. the Lord James Wolfe Murray of Cringletie. The portrait is a reproduction, "reproduced by W.A. Sawyer" and features the name "Westfield Walmer." This piece offers a unique and personal glimpse into the life of a prominent family from the 19th century.
The back of the frame is a treasure in itself, with handwritten notes providing a fascinating provenance:
Mrs. Murray's maiden name, Isabella Strange.
Her husband's full name and title.
The years she was married (1807) and when she died (1847).
Her parents' names, James Strange and Margaret of Durisdeer.
Connections to "Bonnie Prince Charlie" and the Clan Strange and Clan Durham.
This detailed information makes the piece more than just a portrait; it's a direct connection to a specific person and a family with ties to Scottish history. It would be a captivating addition for a collector of historical portraits, a genealogist, or someone with a special interest in Scottish family history.
Condition: Good antique condition. The engraving shows some signs of age-related foxing and discoloration, as is common with prints of this era. The frame is a period piece with a dark wood finish and some gold gilt trim, showing wear consistent with its age. The back of the frame is the original cardboard with handwritten family history, making it a key part of the item's value. The label on the back from the "Army & Navy Co-operative Society, Ltd." further authenticates its age and origin.
Measurements:
Historical Background:
This piece is a fantastic example of a personal historical document. The detailed notes on the back provide an incredible amount of information, linking the subject directly to known historical figures and locations. The Army & Navy Co-operative Society, Ltd. was a well-known department store in London that operated from the late 19th century into the 20th century, confirming the piece's age. The portrait itself is a reproduction of an original piece, likely a painting, allowing it to be widely distributed among family members or admirers. The notes about her family lineage, including her father James Strange and his connection to the "Bonnie Prince Charlie" Stuart line, add to its significance.
