Hi Everyone. We've been asked to find out more information on the following item:
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A glazed frame that consists of a black and white print of the portrait of Lord Nelson. This portrait is surrounded with a garland of oak leaves and acorns. Immediately below the portrait is the signature “Nelson & Bronte”, affixed with a seal in red wax. The frame appears to be gilded pine with carved lion’s heads in each corner.
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On the reverse of the frame there is a very fragile letter which appears to be addressed to Lady Emma Hamilton from J.S. (Nelson’s secretary John Scott?). The letter is affixed in each corner with seals in black wax. The upper and lower seals are the same as the red one on the front. The seal at the upper and lower right corners is a coat of arms with what appears to be a yeoman of the guard to the left and a stag to the right set in a circular lozenge. The overall dimensions are approximately 29 cm x 26 cm.
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The letter reads:
Lady E.H.
Lord Nelson’s will is dated 18th May 180
To the will and first Codicil he signed his titles of Honor and there are six further
Codicils all in his worship’s handwriting. The Titles of Honor “Nelson & Bronte” under
the print on the other side were written shortly before the fatal action off Trafalgar and
being in his handwriting correspond to his signature in the will and Codicils; the
impression of the seal next – the Titles is the same as it appears on the will.
His Lordship’s distinguished Remembrance of a Lady, widow of an eminent Diplomatic
Character continued and was acted upon to the last moment next before hoe caused a
Telegraphic Communication to be made to the Fleet “England expects every Man to do
His Duty”. He had as of with anticipation of the Event engaged himself in framing and
Writing deliberately with his own and only remaining hand a Memorial of Emma, Lady
Hamilton widow soliciting the Protection of His Majesty’s Government for His Majesty’s
Bounty and Munificence in consequence of Publick Services rendered by her or his
Influence after unavailing national applications and forms. The highest possible authority
to whom this interesting Memorial was submitted for the purpose of procuring it to be
engrafted with his will as was most anxiously wished decided against its admission as a
documentary paper it could not therefore be recorded. It is as witnessed by his first Captain and secretary.
JS
Hopefully an interesting item! If you are able to shed any light on authenticity, value, genuine etc I'd love to hear your comments.
Thanks
Adrian