John Constable and the Fishers: The Record of a Friendship

Based on original letters, John Constable and the Fishers explores the friendship between Constable and the Fisher family, including the Bishop of Salisbury and his nephew the Archdeacon of Berkshire. The letters provide a glimpse into life in cathedral closed and country vicarages, and Constable's confidences and ambitions are revealed. The book is annotated and illustrated with connected works by Constable, making it of interest to students of history, art, and literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 326 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1952, John Constable and the Fishers is a remarkable work that delves into the unpublished letters of Constable, offering a captivating narrative that explores the profound friendship he shared with various members of the Fisher family. Among these prominent figures were the Bishop of Salisbury, a personal friend of George III who entrusted him with the education of Princess Charlotte, as well as his nephew, the Archdeacon of Berkshire. The Archdeacon's letters provide a vivid glimpse into the life of a cathedral closed and country vicarages, reminiscent of the fictional worlds created by Trollope in Barchester and Thomas Hardy in Wessex. In return, Constable confides his ideals and ambitions, and as suggested by Mr. Grigson in his introduction, the encouragement he received from the Fishers may have had a profound impact on the future of landscape art. The letters are meticulously annotated, providing valuable insights into the historical context and personal connections of the time. Additionally, they are accompanied by captivating illustrations done by Constable himself, adding an artistic dimension to the book. This captivating work appeals to students of history, art, and literature, offering a unique perspective on the life and artistic endeavors of John Constable.

Weight: 760g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032404066