The late J. M. W. Turner, R.A.
G. W. has the honour to acknowledge the receipt of five communications respecting the Sketch of the late Mr. Turner, which appeared with J. T. A.'s letter in the January number of "Current Notes," (p. 1.) Four of his correspondents are pleased with the Sketch, and one who signs himself, D. R. states that he knew Mr. Turner well, and considers it to be, "no caricature, but on the contrary, an excellent likeness."
However, the following epistle, expresses a different opinion.
Yarmo. Feb, 2, 1852.
Sir,—How very vexing it is that the "rude sketch" favoured by your obliging correspondent, (J. T. A.) was not placed in the hands of some R. A. (before engraved), who was acquainted and well knew that celebrated painter, and from that ("rude sketch") and the knowledge he (R. A.) had of the late Turner, would have favoured us with a more characteristic portrait. Was he not more than four feet in stature? This represented ("Current Notes," January, 1852, p. 1), reminds us of a wooden punchinello more than any thing that ever breathed, and not at all credible to the "Current Notes." All such Notes are highly interesting if properly done.
In haste. Yours faithfully,
W.
The Marquis of Worcester, (Author of the "Century of Inventions").—R. C. particularly thanked for his communication.