Miniature of John Syme

This miniature portrait is of John Syme, a friend and admirer of Robert Burns.  He was a local lawyer and held the position of District Collector of Stamps.  His office was in Bank Street below Robert Burns' first home in Dumfries.   In July 1793 Burns and Syme embarked together on a tour of Galloway, staying at Kenmuir Castle, which inspired Burns to write "Scots Wha Hae".  Following the death of the poet in 1796, Syme was unstinting in his support of Burns' widow and family.  This portrait is of John Syme in later life and the artist and date are unknown.  It is one of a set of three, his son, Richard, and grandson, Adam, being the subjects of the others.  The portrait is set in a large ornate gilt frame.
Object no :
BCBN017a
Collection :
Robert Burns
Creator :
NA
Place of Production :
NA
Dimensions :
(image) length 74mm, width 56mm
Materials :
ivory, wood, plaster
Location :
NA
Related site :
Mark Farm, Castle Kennedy
2 Fmedia2 F88112 F115

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