Wilkie was born at Fife, Scotland in 1785, the son of a parish minister. After obtaining a basic eduction Wilkie enrolled in the Trustees' Academy in Edinburgh to study art and later in London's Royal Academy of Arts. By the the early 1800s he had become a well known artist and in November 1809 was elected an associate of the Royal Academy.
During his career he painted works in the Dutch genre-style, and produced portraits of numerous important figures of his day, such as of King George IV in 1822. In 1830 Wilkie was appointed to succeed Sir T. Lawrence as Painter in Ordinary to the king, and was knighted in 1836. He continued to paint until his death in 1841.
Further information about this individual or organization may be available in the Special Collections Research Center Wiki:
Purchase
Processed by Ellen Strong in 1985.
Collection is open to all researchers. Before publishing quotations or excerpts from any materials, permission must be obtained from the Manuscripts and Rare Books Librarian, and the holder of the copyright, if not Swem Library. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations, such as the Virginia Public Records Act (Code of Virginia. § 42.1-76-91); and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (Code of Virginia § 2.2-3705.5). Confidential material may include, but is not limited to, educational, medical, and personnel records. If sensitive material is found in this collection, please contact a staff member immediately. The disclosure of personally identifiable information pertaining to a living individual may have legal consequences for which the College of William and Mary assumes no responsibility.
Sir David Wilkie Papers, Special Collections Research Center, William & Mary Libraries.
Chronological
This collection consists of fourteen letters of outgoing correspondence penned by Scottish painter Sir David Wilkie (1785-1841) between 1820 and 1840. These letters were written while Wilkie was residing in London and discuss his work as an artist and are addressed to various correspondents.
15 items.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to James Russell, Covent Gardens [London]. Wilkie sends the name of an acquaintance in Dublin, Ireland who will be happy to make his acquaintance when he arrives there; sends best wishes for a 'pleasant journey and a successful campaign in Dublin.' .
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to James Wilson Croker. Accepts membership in club and returns list as requested.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to James Russell, Covent Garden, [London]. Asks Russell to leave out a few wigs to use in his artwork, and also the lute and snuff-box. Will send for them Tuesday, regards for family.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Francis Collins, [London]. Wilkie expects Collins on Tuesday with the frame along with the people to put it up.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to unlisted. Mrs. Baillie will let them have the picture; requests proof of your last plate to give her when he sends for the picture.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Mrs. Boys. Submits drawing to Mrs. Boys for her approval and acceptance; apologizes for the delay.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Sir Francis Chantrey. Has been assured that Walter Francis Scott, Duke of Buccleuch, will be in London on the 21st.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Lord John Russell. Regrets that he missed Mrs. Russell's visit to view his art; hopes Lord Russell will stop by to view his art soon at the exhibition.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Francis Graham Moon. Agrees with his letter of the 4th containing his proposed agreement; hopes that no difficulties will arise in settlement; requests his brother have the picture of the Queen's First Council delivered for the 'immediate commencement of work.'
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to James Hall. Next sitting will be in two days, suggests a meeting time.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Charles R. Leslie. Accepts invitation with his sister to wait upon Mr. and Mrs. Leslie.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to John Bennett. Has left all the drawings he can find in a portfolio labeled 'etching.'
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Mrs. [?] Marshall. Regrets not being able to see her on May 2nd because a friend is coming from Edinburgh.
D. Wilkie, Kensington [London], to Mr. [?] Morton. Is sending two pictures; will call on him the day after Tuesday.
A letter written by David Wilkie regarding a copy of his portrait painting of King William IV.
Gift of the Butterworth family.