Unique Sketch Portrait Unearthed from U.S. Recycling Bin

A rare pen and ink sketch by renowned 18th-century British portrait artist George Romney has been unexpectedly discovered in a wheelie bin in the United States. The artwork, depicting Henrietta Greville, Countess of Warwick, features her seated pose and is set to be auctioned at Roseberys on March 12th in London. It’s estimated to have a value between 600 and 800.

The original oil painting version of this portrait can be found in The Frick Collection, situated approximately 200 miles away from where the sketch was discovered by an anonymous antiques enthusiast in Hudson, New York. Upon discovering it buried in the wheelie bin, the collector initially thought it merely looked interesting but had no idea of its historical significance.

After bringing the piece home and conducting some research, they were astounded to learn that it dated back nearly 300 years. The enthusiast expressed disbelief at how such a mid-18th-century drawing from England ended up in trash in upstate New York.

“This is an extraordinary discovery,” commented Lara L’vov-Basirov of Roseberys, highlighting the piece’s remarkable preservation and fortunate rescue from waste. “The sketch was created during Romneys mature period when he was at his peak as a portraitist, showcasing his sensitivity in capturing subjects.

The work is typical of Romney’s experimental techniques that distinguished him from other prominent artists such as Sir Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough. It also reflects the close relationship between the artist and the Greville family, who were significant patrons and friends throughout their lives.

Henrietta Greville (ne Vernon) married George Greville, 2nd Earl of Warwick, in 1776. Her brother-in-law Charles Greville introduced Romney to Emma Hamilton, the beloved muse and lifelong fascination of Lord Nelson, who was her lover at that time.

Henrietta sat for Romney on multiple occasions in 1777, 1782, and 1784. She often appeared alone or with her children in his portraits. Born in Dalton-in-Furness when it was part of the historic county of Lancashire, George Romney passed away in Kendal, Cumbria, in 1802.