STANHOPE, Elizabeth, née Green Later Countess of Harrington, wife of Leicester Stanhope (1784-1862).
Elizabeth Stanhope's family album (initialled 'E.W.H.' on front), quarter morocco (worn, spine damaged), 250 x 300 mm (ca 10 x 12 inches). Containing many drawings, photographs, poems and ephemera, ranging from 1850 to 1861 where dated.
A fine collection of sketches, watercolours, photographs, inscriptions and poetry composed by family members and visitors. The collection comprises approximately 50 pencil or pen and ink sketches, 31 watercolour paintings (many of the Harrington peroperties), 17 photographs, 10 poetical contributions, and 4 theatre programmes.
Among the photographs and watercolours are scenes of Gawsworth, Elvaston Castle and Harrington House, with family groups including Leicester Stanhope outside Elvaston. Elvaston Castle was built around 1817 for the third Earl of Harrington, and belonged to the Stanhope family until the mid 20th century. Gawsworth was the scene of one of the most famous duels in England. The Duke of Hamilton and Lord Mohun fought for the estate in 1712, and both were killed.
There are some fine anonymous portraits among the sketches, including one of John Gibson, sculptor (1790-1866) and one of Lord Curzon. Many of the sketches and watercolours are by the Countess of Harrington's children, Lady Anna Chandos-Pole, Lady Geraldine Stanhope and Viscount Petersham. There are also some attractive watercolour paintings by Saba, Lady Holland, and a pencil sketch of three angels by the sculptor Richard Westmacott.
The inscriptions are mainly light 'charades' and poems, many dedicated to Lady Harrington's children.
The four theatre programmes are for plays in which the Countess of Harrington ('Mrs Leicester Stanhope') took part.
Leicester Stanhope, fifth Earl of Harrington, is best known for his involvement, with Lord Byron, in the Greek struggle for independence. He was responsible for accompanying Byron's body and effects back to England after his death in 1824.
[No: 20865]