Watercolour. 9 by 5¾ in.
The first theatre on this site was opened by the King’s Company in 1663, and was burnt down in 1672. The next, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, was opened in 1674 and was new-faced by the brothers Adam. A third theatre, designed by H. Holland, was opened in 1794 and burnt down in 1809. James and Horace Smith’s “Rejected Addresses” were burlesque prologues for the fourth theatre, designed by Benjamin Dean Wyatt, which is here portrayed. It was opened 10 October 1812, with a prologue by Lord Byron, whose style the Smiths had parodied. The portico in Brydges Street, now Catherine Street, was added when Elliston was lessee, and the colonnade, Little Russell Street, in 1831.
This is the original of an engraving in Wilkinson’s “Londina Illustrata.” Whichelo, who painted it, devoted himself to topographical and afterwards marine subjects. He exhibited at the Royal Academy and was for many years member of the Old Watercolour Society. He died in 1865.
By J. M. Whichelo, c. 1813. Lent by H.M. the King.
55 THAMES BELOW BRIDGE, LOOKING TOWARDS ST. PAUL’S.
Watercolour. 21 by 13 in.
A reach of the river with shipping, and old buildings to left, which, from their position and that of St. Paul’s in the distance, must be on the Surrey shore, near Rotherhithe.
By John Thomas, elder son of Domenic Serres, R.A., native of Gascony. He was a successful painter of landscape and marine views, but was ruined by the depravity and extravagance of his wife, born Olive Wilmot, who called herself Princess of Cumberland. He died within the rules of the King’s Bench Prison.
By J. T. Serres (1759-1825). Lent by Mr. H. Oppenheimer.