December 16th 2024.
In a recent discovery at a Scottish castle, a portrait of the renowned 18th-century poet, Robert Fergusson, has been unearthed. This finding has the potential to shed new light on the life and works of the poet who greatly influenced another celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Burns.
The painting was found at Barnbougle Castle, located near Edinburgh, and is part of the esteemed collection of Archibald Primrose, the 5th Earl of Rosebery. He was not only a former Prime Minister, but also a well-known antiquarian. According to Professor Carruthers, a leading scholar in Scottish Literature, there were only three known portraits of Fergusson from his lifetime. These included a rough sketch in the Cape Club minute-book from 1773, a portrait by Alexander Runciman, and a painting by an unknown artist, which was believed to have been once owned by the famous artist, Henry Raeburn.
Through his research, Professor Carruthers has proposed that this newly discovered portrait could be a previously unknown depiction of Fergusson during his lifetime. This is significant as the poet passed away at a young age of 24 in 1774. "This discovery could be one of the most significant findings related to Fergusson in decades," he stated.
The provenance and artistic style of the portrait suggest that it may be the same artwork mentioned in Fergusson's own poem, "Codicile to Rob. Fergusson's Last Will," where he talks about a portrait intended for his publisher, Walter Ruddiman. Despite his short life, Fergusson made a lasting impact on Scottish literature with his exceptional writing in Scots. His work and untimely death greatly influenced Robert Burns.
It is hoped that this newly found portrait will be the fourth addition to the existing historical depictions of Fergusson. "While examining a copy of Fergusson's works that belonged to Robert Burns, a portrait was also kindly presented for examination by Lady Jane Kaplan at Barnbougle Castle," Professor Carruthers shared. "Upon seeing it, I realized that we may have stumbled upon a lost artwork of immense significance. It could possibly be the much talked about 'lost portrait' of Fergusson or a completely unknown one."
The portrait has also caught the attention of art historians. James Holloway, the former Director of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, has confirmed its late 18th-century origins, although he was unable to attribute it to a known artist. This discovery has certainly piqued the interest of many in the art and literary community, and you can read more about it in the latest issue of Scottish Field.
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