John Murray
Date made: c.1750
Artist: unknown artist
Description: John Murray (born Douglas, died Venice 1775) British Ambassador at Constantinople.
Manx Worthies spells the name 'Murrey' and states:
"a son of John Murrey and Susannah Patten, a first cousin of Bishop Wilson's wife and grandson of John Murrey of 'Murrey's Pence' was born in Douglas. He went to England when quite young, and became a member of the English Bar. During the reign of George the First, he was appointed ambassador at Constantinople, and held that office till after the accession of George the Third. He died at Venice, in his sister Elizabeth's house, on his way home from Constantinople, and there he left three silver boxes marked respectively, 'George I' ,'George II' and 'George III', containing the seals of his appointments as ambassador under those sovereigns. He married the Dowager Lady Wentworth, but had no children. He had an estate called Landican in Cheshire."
John Murray's sister's husband, Joseph Smith by name, was British Consul in Venice. It may be mentioned that he and his wife made a collection of of books and articles of veritu which were sold to George III. for £20,000. They are now In the British Museum. The catalogue of these books is at Ballachurry.
John Murray had a daughter, Catherine, from his relationship with Catterina Podrimolli, during his time as Consul in Venice. Catherine subsequently married Count Felice Lombardo.
Measurements: unframed artwork: 46 cm x 39 cm
Materials: oil on canvas
Object name: painting
Collection: Art Collection
ID number: L21657
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