William Trull to Faraday   17 April 1839¹

Coventry, April 17, 1839.

My former letter² in regard to the extraordinary changes the Raphael Tapestries had undergone the last seven months, use as you think proper. I regret not being able to give you a scientific description from the first, and the progress; and the absence of a gentleman acquainted with the chemical effects of light and air, to have noted the changes, is much to be regreted both for science and art. The works themselves being unique, and of above three centuries, so placed for so many years in continued damp to effect such mischief to the colours, are circumstances never to occur again.

Some colours entirely changed, others in confusion and apparently gone, yet by the mere effects of light and air, slowly and quietly resume the chief of their original tints! Flesh reappears, hair on the head starts up; the grand muscular effect and unique power of expression, only found in Raphael and Michael Angelo³, are finely developed where a few months back appeared a plain surface! Here are the works, and the facts may now be ascertained.

I have applied to the directors of the British Institution, Pall Mall, to permit one or two of these Tapestries to be exhibited with the old masters in June; thus those who saw them last year, may be able to see what they now are, and both science and art may be served; for a comparison has never yet been made, since the Cartoons were repaired and painted upon, with the tapestry.

I think, Sir, you will recollect my subject of the stoning St. Stephen, the large masses of blue cloud-like appearance hanging about and over Jerusalem: these have nearly disappeared, and mountain scenery taken the place! The olive grove, which only showed a few tress in front all blue, and a heavy blue-like curtain was over all of the grove; the curtain has disappeared, and a fine deep grove is now seen; the natural green and mossy bank have nearly taken their original state; fresh lights keep breaking out and showing even deeper in the grove! and throughout the works, the original lights are working their way, from the heavier colour.

I remain, Sir, yours, &c., | Wm. Trull.