David Charles Read

Born at Boldre, near Lymington, Hampshire, on 1 March 1790, Read went to London at an early age, and worked under John Scott the engraver; but, in poor health, he returned to the country.

He found employment as a drawing-master, and spent his spare time in sketching in pencil, water-colour, and oils.

[1] In early days, Read engraved plates for a Pilgrim's Progress published by William Sharp at Romsey (1816–17), and other works.

Technically, Read's work is interesting from the use of dry-point, unusual with English etchers of the period.

[1] On his return from Italy, Read concentrated on painting in oils, producing some pictures for Dr. Coope between 1846 and 1849, though he did not exhibit after 1840.

An exhaustive manuscript catalogue, with a memoir of the artist, compiled (1871–4) by his son, Raphael W. Read, F.R.C.S., went to the print-room at the British Museum.