painting / Bulmer Hobson, 1963-64

Framed portrait of Bulmer Hobson, by Maurice MacGonigal, painted when subject was in his 80th year. Signed by the artist with some notes by him also on the rear frame; Bulmer Hobson in his house near Connemara, in his 80th year. Signed by MacGonigal at Gortin, Cloc na Ron. Large magnifying glass in background. Bumer used this for reading as his sight was very bad and had been for years. He was always experimenting with visual aids of this kind, and had advised Paul Dempsey(?) when Paul's sight had failed him. Paul did nothing as his sight was gone. This portrait was painted in the cottage with the red roof built by Bulmer on the shore, and where he resided after his retirement from the Stamp Department in Dublin Castle. Another note reads that this was painted within sight of the sandy hill where he was buried. Although born a Quaker, Bulmer died simply a Christian, and was buried witht he consent of the Catholic parishioners in the graveyard between Gortin and Port na Teodoige(?), under Urris Beag(?), looking out to sea. Painted probably 1963 to 1964. Ornate gilt wood frame.;