This late 18th-century English School painting features a portrait of Benjamin Mather (1753-1821) and his wife Sarah Perry (1755-1788). The pair of oval oils on canvas laid onto board comes with a fascinating family history documented on the verso. The lot also includes the original bodice worn by Sarah Perry in the painting, as well as her 9ct gold and black enamel 'Regard' mourning ring, featuring a plaited hair shank, measuring 25cm x 19cm.
The sitters, part of the esteemed Mather family of Lancashire, have a lineage with historical significance on both sides of the Atlantic. The family's roots can be traced back to Richard Mather (1596-1669), a notable Puritan minister who migrated from England to New England in 1635, playing a pivotal role in the early colonial Massachusetts. Noteworthy descendants in America include Increase Mather (1639-1723), President of Harvard College, and Cotton Mather (1663-1728), a highly influential theologian and writer in early American history.
Benjamin Mather and Sarah Perry, whose wedding took place in London in 1776, represent a branch of the Mather family that remained in England. Tragically, Sarah Perry passed away in 1788 at the age of 33 and was laid to rest in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. Meanwhile, their close relations went on to establish the prominent New England Mather dynasty.
An array of related family ephemera, such as indentures and documents dating from the 17th century onwards, will be available for sale in Duggleby Auctioneers' Maps, Antiquarian Books & Ephemera auction on 24th July.