A life full of exciting stories, paintings, meeting artists, living abroad, two marriages, 14 children, diaries, the Turner Bequest, Queen Victoria, and living at the National Gallery.
In the video, curator Susanna Avery-Quash, researcher Nick Smith, and Head of Learning and Programmes Karen Eslea discuss the life of Ralph Wornum, who served as the Keeper of the National Gallery between 1855-1877. He passed away while in this position.
In December 1854, on the recommendation of Sir Charles Eastlake, Ralph Wornum was chosen as successor to General Thwaites as Keeper of the National Gallery and Secretary to the Board of Trustees. He remained in this position for 22 years until his death in 1877. In 1867 he published his major work on Hans Holbein; 'Some Account of the Life and Works of Hans Holbein, Painter of Augsburg with numerous illustrations'.
Ralph Wornum was married twice, first to Elizabeth Selden (1823-1860) of Virginia, and then to his first cousin, Harriet Agnes Nicholson. Throughout his life, he fathered a total of 14 children. He was affectionately known as 'old snowball'.
Nick tells the details about Ralph Wornum's transition from a focus on law to his passion for art, and his progression from practicing art to documenting it in writing, including showcasing his drawings and diary.
Susanna provides insights into Ralph Wornum's background and how he assumed the role of Keeper, along with details about documenting Board minutes.
Karen shares information about the family life of the Wornum family, their drawings, family tree, and diary. She also reflects on how unique it would have been to grow up in the National Gallery.
