Daniel Lambert 1770-1809
Reproduction
Object numberRCSSC/P 253
CollectionSpecial collections
CategoryVisual works
Object nameObesity, Oil paintings, Portraits
TitleDaniel Lambert 1770-1809
DescriptionPortrait of Daniel Lambert by Benjamin Marshall, unsigned, early 19th century.
Daniel Lambert was born in Leicester, where his father was Keeper of the Bridewell Gaol. In 1791 Lambert succeeded his father to the post. It was about this time that he began to gain weight. By 1793 it was claimed that he weighed 32 stone, despite an active lifestyle and moderate diet. After the gaol closed in 1805 Lambert earned a living from exhibiting himself for show, travelling to London in 1806 and later travelling around the country in a specially constructed carriage. One account described him as 'a stupendous mass of flesh, for his thighs are so covered by his belly that nothing but his knees are to be seen, while the flesh of his legs, which resemble pillows, projects in such a manner as to nearly bury his feet'. However, Lambert was also noted for his 'manly and intelligent' face and his 'quick wit'. He died in Stamford in 1809. At his death he was reported to have weighed 52 stone 11lbs (335kg).
This portrait is attributed to the local Leicestershire artist Benjamin Marshall. Another portrait of Lambert by Marshall is preserved in Leicester Museum and Art Gallery. Other memorabilia relating to Daniel Lambert (including some of his clothes) is preserved in museums in Leicester and Stamford.
Production date 1800 - 1809
Sitter/subject
Related objectsRCSSC/P 2010
Physical Location
LocationNot on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionOil on canvas, 75cm by 60cm, in frame 88.2cm by 75.8cm.
Bibliography
SourceKeith 1930
NotesNo. 48
