
Thomas Chatterton Manuscript Project
M63
Chatterton in Art
Creating Rowley Manuscripts
Age: 10-15, Bristol

'The Secret Message'

'Chatterton' (M Shed Bristol)
A Tall Tail & A Secret Message
There are at least two versions of Henrietta Ward's painting of Chatterton creating his Rowley manuscripts.
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We can be sure that the painting with the title, 'Chatterton,' is by Henrietta. It is signed H Ward and was painted in 1873. It is on display at the M Shed museum in Bristol. The proof lies in its provenance, whatever that might be, but for me the postcard with a photograph of the painting, and its note and signature of Henrietta on the back says it all!
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The other painting, 'The Secret Message,' was sold at auction in 2007 and is also signed H Ward.
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More to follow on this.​





