The Bond of Friendship
I recognized the pen & ink portrait of John Keats straight away, but had not known anything about the artist, Joseph Severn (1793-1879; the anniversary of his death 3rd August). An accomplished artist, he was awarded The Royal Academy's Gold Medal, which had not been awarded to anyone in 8 years. This was where Keats & Severn met. Although they did not know each other well, Severn was the only one to agree to accompany Keats to Italy, to seek a cure, or respite, for his failing health. Severn's father was so enraged by this decision, he knocked his son out cold, and they never saw each other again. But, Severn was faithful in nursing his friend until his dying day.
Above: 'Jan 28th 3 o'clock in the morning - drawn to keep me awake, a deadly sweat was on him all this night' - pen & ink drawing of Keats a month before he died. Below: The Brigand's Family, 1825
He stayed in Italy after, and became a great success painting portraits, pastorals, Biblical and mythological themes; alter-pieces and frescoes. Not so valued on returning to England, where he eventually had to flee his mounting debts. He was well acquainted with death throughout his life, losing his 11 year old, illegitimate son, just a month before they were due to meet; his 1st wife died at the age of 32 from measles; his son by his 2nd wife died in a cot accident, and his most famous close, lingering proximity with Death during his friend's sickness; his letters home whilst in Italy with Keats, are the primary source for Keats's biographers (L) Scene from Alexander Pope's Eloisa to Abelard Below: The Abdication of Mary Queen of Scots,1850
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