Miss Catherine Tatton

1786 · Painting

Can I see it?

Not on view at present

Where is “Miss Catherine Tatton” now? Collection: National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. Not on view at present. Checked September 29, 2026.

Washington, D.C., United States

It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.

1774–1788
The rivalry with Reynolds
In London Gainsborough sets up his studio next to Christie's auction rooms, which he often visits. His London years are marked by rivalry with Joshua Reynolds, president of the Royal Academy.
1784
A quarrel with the Academy over the hanging
In 1784 Gainsborough is displeased with the way his pictures are hung at the Academy's exhibition and asks for them to be rehung lower; he is told that this goes against the general rule and harms the interests of other artists. He takes his pictures away and never again takes part in the Academy's exhibitions, holding exhibitions at his own house instead.
1784
The first private exhibition at Schomberg House
In 1784 Gainsborough holds his first private exhibition at Schomberg House. Among the works shown is the portrait of Frances Browne, Mrs John Douglas, reading a letter in a secluded, overgrown corner of a garden: the silvery violet tones of the clouds and the drapery tie the sitter to her surroundings.
1784
The court post goes to Reynolds
In 1784 Principal Painter in Ordinary Allan Ramsay dies and the King is obliged to give the post to Gainsborough's rival, Academy president Joshua Reynolds; Gainsborough nevertheless remains the royal family's favourite painter.
2 August 1788
Last words: “van Dyck”
Gainsborough dies of cancer at the age of 61; according to his daughter Peggy, his last words were “van Dyck”. He expressed the wish to be buried next to his friend Joshua Kirby.
2 August 1788
Died