Lot 86: The Countess of Lucan (Lady Margaret Bingham) (British d. 1814)

Alexander Pope (1688-1744), wearing green and pink robes and pink turban, his arm resting neat a book and David Garrick (1717-1779), wearing lilac-coloured coat, green waistcoat trimmed with gold, his hair powdered
both inscribed on reverse with sitter's details and signed in monogram, gilt-metal mounts
Oval, 54mm. (2 1/8ins.) and 38mm. (1 1/2ins.) high (2)

part illustrated

Born in 1688, Alexander Pope suffered numerous health problems, including tuberculosis of the spine. Although he had been writing poetry since the age of 12, his first major contribution to the literary world is considered to be An Essay on Criticism (1711). Other famous works include The Rape of the Lock (1712, revised 1714) as well as a six-volume translation of Homer's Iliad (1715-1726). This portrait of him was copied from a painting in the collection of the Duke of Harcourt.
David Garrick, actor, dramatist, theatre manager and friend of Dr. Johnson. Having failed to succeed in a legal career, he decided on the stage, and by 1741 he was the talk of the theatrical scene for his performance in William Shakespeare's Richard III. He went on to manage Drury Lane Theatre, and was one of the most influential and popular figures in the history of British theatre. Garrick was interred in the "Poet's Corner" at Westminster Abbey. This copy by Lucan is taken from a portrait by Gainsborough.