Turner, Joseph M.W. (1775-1851) English painter and watercolorist, known for his brilliant atmospheric landscapes and innovative studies of light and sky.
Autograph Letter Signed. One page, Octavo, Athenaeum, Saturday Evening, n.d. Turner writes to a Miss Rogers, accepting an invitation which he has previously been compelled to decline:
"Dear Miss Rogers: Best regards to you and Miss Johnston and glad to say I am more fortunate this time and will have the greatest pleasure of being in Hanover Terrace on Thursday - the 11th...J M W Turner."
Turner led a secretive private life. He never married and when not staying with his patron Lord Egremont at Petworth, he lived in London taverns, dying in such an establishment where he was known by an assumed name. His revolution in art foreshadowed Impressionism and found a timely champion in John Ruskin.
Fine. Lightly stained at bottom right, with mounting traces on verso, otherwise fine.
Estimated Value $1,250-1,750.
