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British History/19th Century Clothing Question

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Expert: - 1/9/2010


Question

Portrait
Hello Joseph,

I am trying to identify a portrait of an ancestor of mine.

My uncle has a portrait (see attached image) which has been passed down the family line. We think it is one of four portraits referred to in a will – the options being:

1. Charles Macintosh (a Scottish inventor of the Macintosh coat)
2. Dr John Forrest (an Army Physician - more details on my website here: http://rootsunearthed.com/index.php5?title=John_FORREST_(1804-1865) ), or
3. John Graham Rodger (a merchant who later became a magistrate i.e. Justice of the Peace)
4. General Alexander Fisher Macintosh

I have found on the internet other portraits of Charles Macintosh and am sure the portrait is not of him. This leaves the possibility of Physician, Magistrate, or General.

I wonder if your experience of the 19th century could identify anything that may identify which of the three people it could be?

Or possibly you know someone else who could assist?

Many thanks,

Giles Forrest

Answer
Hello Giles,

Normally, I would say that this is outside of my expertise but this is something that has intrigued me.  I suggest you first take it to an art dealer -- they may be able to give you an idea of the age of the portrait.  That would help pinpoint the period and help narrow the possibilities.  It is my opinion (based on dress) that the man is from the early 19th century.  I think it's beyond my knowledge to help you further, but I will tell you that I think you have an interesting task ahead.

Sincerely,

Joseph Logue

Joseph Logue

Expertise

I am knowledgeable about English history from about 1400 to 1688, and then from the reign of Victoria (after 1837). I have a particular interest in the monarchy and dynastic relations of Europe from 1800 onwards. I cannot answer questions regarding the latter Stuarts, the early Hanovers, and the politics of the 18th century.

Experience

Undergraduate degree in British history.
Lifelong interest, and over 25 years of personal study.
Oxford University: History of the British Monarchy

Education/Credentials
BA/History
MS/Library and Information Science
Awards and Honors
Graduated with distinction from the Program for European Studies (UMass Boston).

Awards and Honors
Graduated with distinction from the Program for European Studies (UMass Boston).

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