By William Mills
Mayor unveils Heritage plaque in tribute to world famous painter John Constable
Crowds gathered in Sillwood Road, just off Brighton’s busy shopping thoroughfare Western Road, to watch Brighton & Hove’s City Mayor Cllr Denise Cobb, unveil a plaque commemorating Constable’s visits to Brighton in the early 19th century.
John Constable (1776-1837) painted several masterpieces while staying in Brighton during the Regency period, which was shortly before Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837.
This period was one of Brighton’s best known heydays made famous by the Prince Regent, later King George IV, who commissioned the building of the Royal Pavilion and regularly visiting along with the wealthy and fashionable of London’s high society.
It is thought Constable was accompanied by wife, Maria, his childhood sweetheart whom he married in 1816, on these visits, for although she was suffering from consumption known today as TB, the sea air was believed to be beneficial. Indeed Brighton became famous as the country’s premier bathing resort, and the beach huts can still be seen today along the seafront.
The mayor was applauded and thanked for all the hard work she put into this event.
The event was organised by Roger Amerena, philanthropic chair of Brighton and Hove Heritage Commission.
After the ceremony a party was held at nearby Montpelier Hall, home of Mr Amerena, attended by the Mayor and guests.
