Sketch of Elsie Palmer returns to Ightham Mote

Ightham Mote, a stately home managed by the National Trust in Kent, is pleased to announce the return of a sketch created by artist John Singer Sargent, which was done at the home and features one of the former residents.

Sargent, who has been described as one of the leading portrait artists of his generation was a frequent guest at Ightham Mote during the 1890s when it was the home of the Palmer family and where they held numerous literary and artistic gatherings. The sketch, which was done in preparation for one of Sargent’s best loved paintings A Lady in White, features the then 17 year old Elsie Palmer and her dog in the hallway at Ightham Mote. Elsie went on to be one of Sargent’s most famous models, also appearing in A Lady in White, which is on display in the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Centre. Now though, after years, the original sketch has been returned to Ightham Mote after being acquired by the National Trust from Elsie Palmer’s granddaughter. The sketch is now on display at the house and the hallway in the background remains recognisable today.

Speaking to The Guardian about the acquisition, Bernadette Gillow, Ightham Mote’s General Manager, said: “Sue to the frequent changes of people who have owned or leased the house, many objects associated with it were dispersed prior to being donated to the National Trust in 1985. Three years ago, we managed to acquire and bring home a painting [also by Sargent] that was created here of the Palmer family enjoying a game of bowls in the garden. This latest acquisition is a rare and highly significant addition for Ightham Mote. We are thrilled that Elsie has come home and that we can share this charming depiction of her with our visitors.”

Ightham Mote is a 700 year old moated manor house which has been under the care of the National Trust since 1985, who have brought it back to its former brilliance after it fell into disrepair. It has long been associated with the arts, after initially being the residence of court musician William Hatur, the uncle of Elizabeth Woodville, wife of King Edward IV. Over the years, it has hosted a number of artists, writers and musicians, not just Sargent, but also the author Henry James, who described it as “wonderful” and the actress Ellen Terry. Visitors to the home will not only love to see the sketch of Elsie but will also notice the painted barrel-vaulted roof in the New Chapel which is believed to show the allegiance of a former owner to Henry VIII, as it displays the Tudor rose. Visitors interested in the house’s Tudor history should visit during their Christmas celebration which focuses on the Tudor era and will give you an insight into the Christmas festivities of the time and features several family friendly activities and entertainment. A Tudor Christmas is running at the house from 26^th November until 8^th January, with more details available here.