Hanes and Ruskin Antiques - Paintings - Oil & Pastel

Research reveals that Thomas Barrett Govier and Emma Phillips were married in Bristol, Gloucestershire, England, on August 21, 1822. The 1851 census tells us that Thomas was a blacksmith. Four years after their marriage, they had their portraits painted by E. Mayo, whose name is not found in any references to British portrait painters of the era. The portraits are delightful, showing a young contented couple. They must have been fairly prosperous, which is evident in Emma's proudly displayed jewelry. Interestingly, it seems that at the time of the marriage Emma was not able to sign her own name, as her signature is recorded as "the mark of Emma Phillips."