Daniel Maclise. Portrait of a Young Charles Dickens (On Wood Panel). (1806-1870) Daniel Maclise was an Irish painter, illustrator and worked for most of his life in London beginning in 1827. He moved to London to study art and immediately found success selling lithographs of two of his earliest portraits: One of Sir Walter Scott and the other of actor Charles Kean. These brought him substantial amounts of money cementing financial and critically acclaim. He enjoyed a lifelong friendship with Charles Dickens and illustrated many of stories including numerous Christmas works He also painted a few portraits of Dickerns, the most famous hanging in the National Portrait Gallery in London The portrait being offered at Goldberg Auctions is thought to be around the time of his publishing Nicholas Nickleby (1839) likely at the behest of the publisher.An engraving was made of this work by print seller and highly regarded engraver, R. Graves (1798-1873). Otherwise this portrait, having been in private hands so long, has not enjoyed much exposure. However, various engravings of this work are heavily reproduced and available on online.Painted on wood panel, 8 x 6", and unsigned, the portrait was originally framed in gilt wood 9 x 7" which still remains. Later, the entire panel and original frame were enclosed in a larger frame this time under glass, ultimately measuring 11.5 x 9.5". On the verso of the original panel is the name "Charles Dickens" lettered in white oil or india ink. Executed just below in pencil, "By Maclise". Panel and art are in near pristine condition. There were no nails in the inner or outer frames so the wood panels protecting the art were taped in place. For photography, all tape was carefully removed. This is a rare opportunity for the hundreds of thousands of fans of Dickens who still enjoy the storytelling by one of the greats. Estimated Value $5,000 - 8,000 Superior Galleries: Collectibles Auction, May 3, 1998 Lot 0986.
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