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Notes
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Lawrence's dashing portrait was painted at the time when Melbourne, then William Lamb, married the poet Lady Caroline Lamb (1805). Their marriage proved unhappy, being marred by her notorious affair with Lord Byron. They separated legally in 1825. Two years later Canning appointed him Chief Secretary for Ireland. In this post Melbourne was responsible for public safety during the widespread 'Swing Riots' (1830) when agricultural labourers revolted against low pay, the use of new farm machinery and the introduction of cheap Irish labour.
Title
William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne
Date
c.1805
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
H 75.9 x W 63.2 cm
Accession number
5185
Acquisition method
Accepted in lieu of tax by HM Government and allocated to the Gallery, 1978
Work type
Painting
National Portrait Gallery, London
St Martin’s Place, London, Greater London WC2H 0HE England
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