Gilbert Stuart

Manuscript DS, signed "Gilb: Stuart, witness,” one page, 7.25 x 9, August 2, 1783. Document concerning the publication rights to a literary work, in part: "Recd. from John Murray, bookseller Ten pounds ten shillings in full for the Literary property or Copy right of a work of mine entitled 'A Philosophical Analysis & Illustration of Shakespeare's remarkable characters' whereof one part is already printed, and another delivered at or before the signing of these premises to the said John Murray to be published for his sole benefit & interest. At the same time it is understood that if the work above…is successful and sells one edition in octavo that the bookseller or proprietor shall render to the author such further premium or present as may be adequate to the success aforesaid." Signed at the conclusion in ink by William Richardson and countersigned by Gilbert Stuart as a witness. Handsomely mounted, matted, and framed with a period engraving to an overall size of 19.75 x 15.75. In fine condition.

In 1775 Stuart went to London and entered the studio of the American artist Benjamin West, with whom he worked for about six years. In 1782 he opened his own London studio and for five years enjoyed great success, but in 1787 he fled to Dublin to escape his creditors.