Cornworthy Vicarage, Totnes.
_Portrait of Baretti_ (Vol. VIII., p. 411.).--In reply to MR. G. R.
CORNER'S Query regarding Sir Joshua Reynolds' picture of Baretti, I can
give him the information he requires.
This very interesting portrait is now at my brother's, Holland House,
Kensington.
My late father, Lord Holland, had a pretty picture of the late Lord
Hertford's mother (I believe), or some near relation of his. Not being
connected with that family, my father offered it to Lord Hertford, leaving
it to his lordship to give him such picture as he might choose in exchange.
Some time afterwards this portrait of Baretti was sent, and was much prized
and admired. It represents Baretti reading a small book, which he holds
close to his face with both hands; he is in a white coat, and the whole
carries with it a certainty of resemblance. This occurred about twenty-five
years ago. Perhaps it may interest your readers to learn that our
distinguished {478} painter, Watts, painted for my brother, Lord Holland, a
portrait of another distinguished Italian, Mr. Panizzi, and pendant to the
former. He is represented leaning forward and writing, and the likeness is
very striking.