2-714-135 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

'Lord Rokeby, of Singular Eccentricity', 1821. Portrait of Matthew Robinson, 2nd Baron Rokeby (c1713-1800), an English landowner, politician and nobleman who was considered an eccentric in later life. Rokeby became a sea-bathing enthusiast and made daily trips to the seashore to swim in salt water regardless of the weather. He also grew his beard at a time when the fashion was to be clean-shaven. From "Wonderful Characters: Comprising Memoirs and Anecdotes of the Most Remarkable Persons of Every Age and Nation", Vol. I, by Henry Wilson. [J. Robins and Co. Albion Press, London, 1821]