Boydell (1719-1804). As The Fol- ger Library, which contains some of the Gallery’s paintings and first-edition engravings, notes: Boydell made his fortune by providing engraved prints from famous collections of art, then selling the prints in England and abroad. A savvy sales- man, successful politician, and well-known patron of the arts, Boydell was determined late in life to foster the improvement of British history painting. He commissioned artists like Sir Joshua Reynolds, Henri Fuseli, and Angelica Kauff- man to create works inspired by scenes in Shakespeare, and designed a gallery to display the paintings. He also pub- lished engravings of the paint- ings as illustrations for his edi- tion of Shakespeare’s plays. The Department of English of the University of Texas at Aus- tin has a fascinating digital ex- perience of the Gallery. Entitled What Jane Saw the site is inspired by Austin’s letters recounting preservation projects, ensuring the Gardens thrive for future gen- erations. From its inception, the Friends of Old Westbury Gardens has been more than just a membership level; it’s a passionate community bound by a shared love for histo- ry, culture, and natural beauty. Through their dedication, they safeguard the Gardens’ legacy and
her visit to the Gallery in 1796. For some reason, Downman’s As You Like It was not displayed that year but it was on view in the 1789 and 1790 editions, and during the Gallery’s later years. Yet, as popular as the Gallery was, the admission income could not make up for the lackluster sales of illustrated editions of Shakespeare and Boydell’s expenses far out- weighed the revenue. Ultimately, in 1804-05 the Gallery’s paintings were disbursed through a lottery. Nevertheless, the Gallery con- tinued a new life through its en- gravings as they were included in numerous illustrated Shakespeare editions throughout the 1800s and early 1900s. The engraving of Downman’s As You Like It was commonly used as the main im- age to illustrate As You Like It . ~Paul Hunchak Director of Visitor Services & Public Programs
Continued from page 2. necklace as a good luck symbol of the goddess Fortune following Orlando’s defeat of the wrestling champion Charles (who is being carried off in the background). The painting was owned by Hen- ry Phipps, Jr. and was displayed in his Fifth Avenue townhouse
The painting as it hung in the Henry Phipps, Jr. Fifth Avenue townhouse
It subsequently became ac- quired by Henry’s son Jay and installed in Westbury House. As You Like It was one of 167 paintings commissioned for and displayed at the Shakespeare Gal- lery (1789-1804)—an art exhibit and financial enterprise founded by the English businessman John T he Friends of Old Westbury Gardens, established in 1995, is a community dedi- cated to preserving and celebrating the Gardens and Westbury House. After a hiatus, they’re back with renewed ener- gy—planning exclusive programs and trips that offer behind-the- scenes access to historical sites. They also fundraise to support
The Friends’ Corner
foster con- nections among admirers. Whether you’re a long-time
member or a newcom- er, join in to contrib- ute and share in this rich heritage!
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