Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire Empty Tin, Silver Crane Company 1996 "Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire by Thomas Gainsborough (1728-88)" "On 13th July 1994 the Chatsworth House Trust bought this portrait at Sotheby's. All but forgotten in recent years, a century ago it was one of the most famous paintings in the world. The portrait was painted as a whole-length c. 1785-8 but its owner in the 1830's, an elderly schoolmistress called Miss Maginnis, cut it down to fit over her fireplace. In 1841 she sold it to a picture dealer; John Bentley, who later gave it to his friend the collector Wyml Ellis. Ellis died in 1875 and part of his collection was sent for sale at Christie's. In the week before the sale on 6th May 1876 the Duchess's portrait became the talk of the town. Some doubted that it was by Gainsborough, others that it was of the Duchess of Devonshire, but all were enchanted by its beauty." Please see photos for measurements which are approximate. Some wear and tear but nothing major, overall in great condition. Smoke-free and dog friendly home. Bundle to save on shipping.