Robert Burns

“Robert Burns” (STG 73). This was the first small portrait Stevens produced of a non-political nature. Both the Sprake/Darby and Godden references agree that there are two main versions of this image. This has the poem above the portrait with no title or credit. Both versions have the thistles below the portrait. This is extremely rare being a 7* rarity in the Sprake Darby reference book. The other image is STG 74 is also available with no poem, an arched mount, a credit under the silk and a title. Godden adds another variation – the same as STG 74 with some shading part way up the background either side of the portrait. STG 73 is the earlier of the two pictures. Complete on its’ original mount this is in lovely condition. It has the 21+2 rare trade label on the back. Dated to 1886.