FDA-P.558-2016

Object number

FDA-P.558-2016

Object type

painting

Title

James Culliford, Eton butler

Title Type

assigned by cataloguer

Description

Full-length portrait of a man in a blue coat, with one hand holding railings

Comments

Formerly thought to be oil on board; examination in September 2021 revealed evidence of a photograph beneath the face of the sitter, suggesting this is an oil on photograph

Content (person)

Culliford, James, c.1813 - 1901

Inscription

Inscribed in ink on paper backing 'James Cullif[...]/ the last Chief Bu[...]/ at Eton College to / wear the Eton / livery. / died 1901 / aged 89 / Scene- / The College Pump / in the Cloisters / Presented to Eton by Lord Rosebery / March 1951 C.A.E. / N.B. This livery was worn up to the 2nd World War- / the last Butler to wear it being Roberts who retired in / C.A.E.'

Materials & techniques note

Oil paint on photograph

Physical description

Black and gilt wooden frame, with gilt fillet, glazed

Date

late 19th century

Object history note

Provenance: Collection of Harry Primrose, 6th Earl of Rosebery (1882-1974); by whom presented to Eton College in March 1951

Exhibited: 'Six Centuries of Food & Dining at Eton College', Verey Gallery, Eton College, 14 June 2021 to 31 October 2021