E.M. Ward Autograph Letters Signed (2) circa 1860's

E.M. Ward [Henrietta Mary Ada] Autograph Letters Signed (2) circa 1860's London

2 notes, both measuring about 4.5 x 7 inches were apparently once mounted with one note completely backed and second note partially backed. Content mostly to verso. Corner missing to one note. See photos for condition details. Overall Good Condition.

Henrietta Ward (1832-1909) was born into a family of artists and would marry an artist, Edward Matthew Ward (no relation) at the age of 16, in 1848. Some contemporaries would write her name as "Henrietta Mary Ada Ward Ward." The Wards socialized in an artistic and literary world calling C.L. Dodgson (Lewis Carroll), Charles Dickens and George Cruikshank friends. Henrietta gained favor of the Royals as she gave art lessons to several of the royal children of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Her works widely exhibited, and she authored two autobiographical memoirs.

Her husband was known for his historical works and was commissioned to paint eight canvases for the House of Commons in 1843. By the late 1870's Edward Matthew Ward was battling depression and committed suicide in January 1879.

These two manuscript notes are signed "EM Ward" and are posted from Kent Villa, Lansdowne Road, Kensington. The notes are addressed to Mr. Lefevre and Mr. Jepheries sp? with both being short social notes. Included will be a typed annotation from a collector/dealer giving much history on the Wards.