^#215 ^Lot 226 Lady Emma Hamilton

Born the daughter of a humble blacksmith, the model, entertainer, and courtesan Emma Hamilton (née Amy Lyon, 1761) ascended through the ranks of British society to become the mistress to Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson. Following Nelson’s death in battle in 1805, Hamilton sunk deeply into debt, was sentenced to debtor’s prison, eventually fled to France to escape her creditors, and died in poverty. Sheet music for “A Pastoral, a Rondo, & a March for the Harp, dedicated by Permission to the Right Honble Lady Charlotte Nelson,” from Hamilton’s personal collection, 9.5 x 12.5, seven pages. Music bears Hamilton’s ownership signature in the upper right corner of the cover, “Lady Hamilton, Merton.” A central horizontal fold, erased pencil remnants to cover, scattered toning, some light paper loss to spine, and a light central vertical bend, otherwise very good condition. Lady Hamilton was very keen on her piano, harp, and music lessons given to her for years in Naples. Horatio Nelson purchased Merton Place in 1803. Following his death, Hamilton got into debt and despite help from friends was unable to maintain Merton Place. The house was demolished in 1821 and the estate lands were sold off in parcels over the following years. A great rarity from one of the most colorful women in history.