[Illustration]
SIR,--As it appears from the public Prints that the late eminent
artist, J. M. W. Turner, never sat for his Portrait;--and the only
likenesses of him were taken by stealth, I send you a rude sketch which
I took of him in the same way, about the year 1805 or 6. He was then on
a visit at Mr. Fawkes's, of Farnley, where a number of grouse shooters
had assembled,--and Turner had adopted the garb of a sportsman. His
appearance, as well as his exploits on the moors, were the subject of
much mirth.
One day we accompanied him on an excursion, for the purpose of taking a
sketch of the magnificent scenery of Gordale, in Craven, from which he
afterwards produced a finished painting.
My rude sketch of his person was considered a characteristic
resemblance at the time; and though it has the air of a caricature, yet
was not meant as such when it was drawn.
If you think it would interest the readers of your "Current Notes," you
will perhaps give it as an illustration. If not, I will thank you to
return it to me.
Yours, &c.
I. T. A.