Smith, John Thomas, 1766-1833

Saying that if he publishes a second edition of the book, he will find a more accurate and detailed account of the life of Thomas Banks in the Gentleman's Magazine for 1807 or 1808. With some anecdotes.

This collection comprises an extra-illustrated copy--with many engravings and original manuscript letters--of the second edition of John Thomas Smith's Nollekens and his times, comprehending a life of that celebrated sculptor: and memoirs of several contemporary artists, from the time of Roubillac, Hogarth, and Reynolds, to that of Fuseli, Flaxman, and Blake (London : Henry Colburn, 1829).

About portraits of Dr. Misaubin. Also mentions a gentleman who lived on gin for many years and who was the model for Hogarth's Quack Doctor in the Marriage-a-la-Mode.

About books which he is sending him or has sent him, and enclosing a list of errata [not present].

With a list of the principal works of his father (Sir Richard Westmacott) and where they are to be found. Some are asterisked as "National Monuments."

Asking very urgently for the return of a model belonging to Mr. Planta (probably Joseph Planta, librarian at the British Museum) and a drawing by the late Mr. Alexander (probably William Alexander, of the British Museum).

Regarding Bat Pidgeon's house and Mr. Sheldrake's letter to him on the subject. Bat Pidgeon was the owner of a famous hairdressing salon in the Strand, London.

Asking him to deliver to "Mr. Smith or bearer" the pictures listed in the previous letter.

Introducing Mr. Radcliffe 'who wishes to speak to you about the anecdotes of his late wife which you have introduced in your memoir of Nollekens and his times'. Maida Vale, Wednesday.

Referring to his mention of Zoffany's print of Townley's gallery ('I have just read with great pleasure your publication of "Nollekens and his times'), and asking if and when it will be finished.

Arising out of the biography of Nollekens and about works of art. Mentions a medal by Pisano (i.e. Pisanello?), giving a description and asking if the Museum has a copy.

Asking him to come next Sunday so that he can sketch in Kew Gardens. Combe was superintendent of coins and medals at the British Museum with Smith was there.

Mentioning Francis Douce and also the print collection of Martin van Heemskerck, at one time numbering 40,000 but now "dwindled to little more than 100", in the possession of Richard Cosway.

Regarding Joseph Nollekens' will, asking when legacies will be paid and fulminating against Francis Douce (who was the eventual principal legatee), calling him "that shabby and in fact dishonest fellow, Douce".

Arranging to meet "to settle the plan of moving".

About a dinner to take place with "our Friend Mr. [Francis] Douce".

About Nollekens' will: "more persons of the name of Le Rouz are coming forward to endeavour to prove themselves the next of kin to Mr. Nollekens, the possibility therefore exists that both my brother and self may be oblig'd to return every shilling".

Acknowledging receipt of the Smith's Life of Nollekens and enclosing a guinea as payment.

Introducing Mr. Banks who is a reader at the Museum. "He is anxious for his son (who follows the art of Drawing and Painting) to study from the antiques in the museum".

Concerning the sale of Mr. Balme's property. Also mentions other business: "I shall set off to view an estate in Denbighshire and shall be absent near a fortnight".