A large example of penmanship with portrait of Richard Henry Ashford, 1818

A rare example of penmanship - rare for both for the size and the fact that the watercolour portrait of its creator is included.  This is extremely rare.  The examples of the handwriting mastered by young Richard Henry Ashford at the time are extremely accomplished.

Richard Henry Ashford went on to become a pawnbroker in east London and was involved in an number of cases at the Old Bailey where property was stolen from his shop.   On one occasion he is credited with identifying and locating a man wanted for 'robbery' even leading the policeman to the offender's location. 

'JAMES THOMPSON was indicted for feloniously breaking and entering the dwelling-house of Samuel Avila , on the 30th of July , at St. Dunstan, Stebonheath, alias Stepney, and stealing therein, 3 watches, value 40l. , his property'

Ricahrd Henry Ashford gave evidence at the Old Bailey in the trial on 11th September 1828.   For the theft the young James Thompson was sentenced to death.   He was granted mercy on account of his age.

Housed in a period frame.  Some losses to document and frame.

Measuring  63 cm x 55cm

English, 1818