The Captive Slave portrait returns from conservation
The painting, 'The Captive Slave' is one of the most well-known artworks held by Wilberforce House Museum, and it has returned to the Museum after being restored by Mike Howden who is a specialist conservator based in South Yorkshire. Mike Howden spent many hours conserving the gilded ornate frame which is believed to be original to the oil painting, which was previously conserved in 2005 in preparation for the Centenary Commemorations of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act 2007. The artist is now considered to be unknown despite the previous attributions to Thomas Barker of Bath (1769-1847) and more recently to John Philip Simpson (1782-1847). Even the identity of the sitter is as yet unknown but it has been suggested it could be Ira Aldridge (1807-1867), a great nineteenth century Shakespearian actor. The painting itself is unusual in that it depicted an enslaved African. The British public used the products of slavery in their daily lives, but rarely were faced with the realities of the slave trade presented in this artwork. The new location of the painting within Wilberforce House Museum allows the visitor to fully appreciate the evocative image and original frame as they first enter the house. The frame was becoming increasingly fragile due to its proximity to the entrance creating micro-vibrations that over time would have caused further damage to the frame. Conservation of the painting was made possible with public donations, and with your continuing support important museum objects can be conserved for future generations.
