Partnership with Caroline Morgan Clowes
Through newspaper notices and correspondence, we know that Frederick Rondel was a friend, sometimes artistic collaborator, and always an advocate for Caroline Morgan Clowes. Rondel arrived in the US c. 1856 and moved to Poughkeepsie by early 1862. He taught young ladies, and painted local scenes until he moved to New Rochelle c. 1871. Comparison of Rondel and Clowes oils and sketches.
Advocate
This letter exposes what was a long-running, close collaboration among Rondel, Henry Van Ingen and Clowes in pursuit of commercial success.
Poughkeepsie, July 19th, 1869 ~ I have just received a note from Mr. [?] informing me that he will be here some time next week probably with a friend of his Fred Williams from Boston. An artist and also a friend of mine. Will you please inform Mrs. Dingey and beg her to keep one of her rooms for them. I have not yet heard from Van Ingen but expect to soon. Yours very truly, F Rondel.
DCHS Hart Hubbard Collection.
Collaborator
As much as 18 years after he moved from Poughkeepsie, and three years before his death, we see Clowes collaborating with Rondel on a single canvas.
Postmark Brooklyn, Feb 10, 1889. My dear friend -- I was ill in bed when your picture came, and so please excuse the delay in writing you -- You have sent me a charming but difficult subject -- the buff heifer will not be so difficult to manage -- but a close fine background is I feel beyond my power -- Would you mind if I put in a sketchy background with some open distance? One which might afterwards be worked up -- I would like very much sometime when I become more expert to come up and see you and select or talk over some subject -- perhaps -- I hope you will come to see me whenever you are in the city. with love best, F Rondel.
DCHS Hart Hubbard Collection.
Teacher
Mentor
