Rare 18th-Century Royal Marines Portrait Enters Manx National Art Collection скачать в хорошем качестве

Rare 18th-Century Royal Marines Portrait Enters Manx National Art Collection

Manx National Heritage is proud to announce the acquisition of a rare and historically significant 18th-century oil portrait of Major Paul Crebbin, a Manxman at the outset of his military career with the Royal Marines. Painted by acclaimed artist Arthur William Devis, the artwork has joined the national collection thanks to funding support from the Manx Lottery Trust’s Dormant Assets Programme. Major Crebbin, believed to be just 17 years old at the time the portrait was painted, would go on to serve in the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars. His remarkable story of duty and resilience is preserved not only in this newly acquired painting, but also in his own surviving letter, which offers a first-hand account of his experiences during this pivotal period in world history. The Royal Marines Museum has described the portrait as “extremely rare,” with the added value of Crebbin’s personal writings making it an exceptional acquisition for the Isle of Man. Following expert conservation, the portrait is now on display in the Temporary Exhibition Gallery at the Manx Museum. In Spring 2026, it will take pride of place in the Mann at War Gallery, home to one of the British Isles’ most significant collections of military artefacts, including uniforms from the battles of Trafalgar and Waterloo. The addition of Crebbin’s portrait strengthens the gallery’s ability to tell compelling personal stories of Manx involvement in global events. Matthew Richardson, Curator for Manx National Heritage, said: “The painting was acquired by our charity on generous terms from Major Crebbin’s descendants. It is a powerful and inspiring addition to the national collection, not only capturing the image of a young Manxman at the start of a distinguished military career, but also connecting us to history through his own words. Thanks both to the family making the acquisition possible, and the generous support of the Manx Lottery Trust, Manx National Heritage is thrilled to have been able to conserve and display this remarkable painting”. Conservation of the painting was made possible through the Manx Lottery Trust’s Dormant Assets Programme, which channels funds from dormant bank and building society accounts into initiatives that benefit the Island’s community, heritage and environment. Sarah Kelly, Chairman of the Manx Lottery Trust, commented: “Supporting the preservation of our Island’s rich and unique heritage is central to our mission. We’re proud to play a part in bringing this rare and meaningful artwork into public care, where it will help tell the stories of those who shaped, and were shaped by, the Isle of Man.” The grant also met the cost of conserving the painting at the studios of Critchlow and Kukkonen in Sheffield. The work was extensive and included cleaning and retouching, which has restored the original composition, formerly obscured by nineteenth century over-paint. The canvas was re-lined to address several substantial tears, one of which was reputedly caused by a sword thrust! The painting is currently on public display in the Temporary Exhibition Gallery at the Manx Museum, which is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Admission is free.