Robert Hovenden, died 1872

A carte-de-visite portrait of Robert Hovenden, who, at the time of the 1871 census, was a ‘Retired Human Hair Merchant.’ In 1861 he gave his profession as ‘Wholesale Perfumer (employing 17 men and 14 boys).’

Instead of displaying the photographer’s details, the reverse of the mount has been printed as a faire-part announcing the sitter’s death. The text, set amidst black borders, reads: ‘In affectionate remembrance of / Robert Hovenden / of Clifton Lodge, Selhurst Road, South Norwood / who died April 7th, 1872, / in his 69th year, / and was interred at Abney Park Cemetery.’

An announcement of his death appeared in the South London Chronicle (20 April 1872): ‘On the 7th inst., at his residence, Clifton Lodge, Selhurst-road, South Norwood, Mr Robert Hovenden, of City-road and Great Marlborough-street, London, in his 69th year.’

According to the abstract of his will, he left an estate valued at £18,000. His will was proved by his son Robert Hovenden, a perfumer living at 8 Gower Street, Bloomsbury.

Details of his grave appear on the website Find A Grave. According to the accompanying text, ‘Robert Hovenden married Sarah Churcher on May 16, 1828 in the Church of Saint John the Baptist, New North Road, Hoxton Parish, Borough of Hackney, Greater London, England. He was the founder of Hovenden & Sons, Ltd., Wholesale Perfumers & Wig Makers, 31-33 Berners Street and 87-95 City Road, City of London, England.’

Photographer unidentified.