X-Nico

Abraham Wivell

In 1827 Wivell wrote An inquiry into the history, authenticity, & characteristics of the Shakspeare portraits, a detailed examination of portraits of William Shakespeare, which replied to an earlier work by James Boaden.

Boaden

James Boaden (1762–1839), English biographer, dramatist, and journalist

James Boaden

In 1796 Boaden addressed to George Steevens, the Shakespearean commentator, ‘A Letter containing a Critical Examination of the Papers of Shakespeare published by Mr. Samuel Ireland.’ He stated in this letter his grounds for believing the papers held by Samuel Ireland to be spurious; but said that he, like so many others, had been at first deceived.

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He left nine children, of whom John Boaden was an artist, and another (a daughter) inherited a facility for play-writing.

Samuel Ireland

James Boaden, formerly a believer, responded with A Letter to George Steevens, published in January 1796, that attacked their authenticity, but the decisive blow was delivered by Edmond Malone’s response, An Enquiry into the Authenticity of Certain Papers and Legal Instruments, published in March 1796.

see also

Boaden

John Boaden (1792/3–1839), English portrait painter, son of James Boaden