Anecdotes Of Painting In England
By Horace Walpole
Published by Alexander Murray: London 1871
"
Horace Walpole's Anecdotes of Painting in England (1871 Alexander Murray edition) is an indispensable chronicle of British art and artists from the Tudor period through the 18th century, originally compiled from the papers of the antiquarian George Vertue. Blending biographical sketches with critical commentary, Walpole documents the evolution of English painting, engraving, sculpture, and architecture, while offering shrewd observations on style, patronage, and the social milieu of artists. His lively prose combines wit and erudition, resulting in a text that is both a historical record and an engaging portrait of the nation's artistic character. This edition preserves the essential notes and references, ensuring continuity with Vertue's original manuscripts while enhancing accessibility for 19th-century readers.
Beyond its artistic documentation, the book captures the shifting cultural identity of England as it moved toward aesthetic maturity and independence from continental influence. Walpole's perspective as a collector, connoisseur, and founder of Strawberry Hill infuses the narrative with personal insight into taste, collecting, and the role of art in society. This volume would appeal to collectors of art history classics, admirers of Georgian culture, and students of Britain's artistic and architectural heritage."
