c1860s UNPUBLISHED Reminiscence Letter Describing Lost Clay Bust CHARLES DICKENS For Sale

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

c1860s UNPUBLISHED Reminiscence Letter Describing Lost Clay Bust CHARLES DICKENS:
$499.99

Reminiscence Letter Describing Lost Clay Bust of Charles Dickens – ca. Mid-19th Century

Description:
One page, measuring 7.5 x 5 inches. A fascinating and unpublished handwritten reminiscence recounting the creation of a now-lost clay bust of Charles Dickens, observed during a visit to the studio of a sculptor identified in the letter as “Mr. Joseph.” While undated, internal evidence places the events described prior to the lithographic portrait of Dickens by Samuel Laurence (published 1838–1839).

The author, whose identity is not signed but is noted in a later hand as Samuel Haydon, details being taken to the sculptor’s studio in Charlotte Street, Fitzroy Square—likely that of Joseph Durham (1814–1877), a prominent British sculptor known for his portrait busts and public statues. The sculptor is described as struggling to work because Dickens’s ever-present wit and humor caused him to laugh, making his hands unsteady during the modelling process.

The letter states:
“I saw in the clay an admirable bust full of life of Charles Dickens… Mr. Joseph mentioned that he had great difficulty frequently in proceeding with his modelling from the exuberants of humour poured out by the sitter rendering his hand unsteady from suppressed laughter.”

The bust is described as having been never cast into plaster and eventually destroyed, although Dickens and others reportedly found it to be an “admirable likeness.” The author speculates that the bust was not preserved because no commission had been formally given.

The sculptor referred to is noted for his marble statue of William Wilberforce in Westminster Abbey, a work by Joseph Durham, further supporting his likely identification as the artist mentioned in this account.

A historically significant firsthand recollection offering a vivid portrayal of Dickens's personality and studio presence, and valuable insight into a lost artistic likeness of the author.

Condition:
General toning to the paper. Light old tape remnants at left edge. Ink remains strong and fully legible. No loss to text.

Explore Our store

c1860s UNPUBLISHED Reminiscence Letter Describing Lost Clay Bust CHARLES DICKENS

$499.99