Samuel Kilderbee (1750 – 16 October 1836) was an English clergyman of the [[Church of England]], best known for his close friendship with and patronage of the painter [[Thomas Gainsborough]]. He served as a prominent figure in the ecclesiastical and social life of [[Suffolk]], England, during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Biography
Born in 1750, Samuel Kilderbee came from a well-established family in Suffolk. He pursued a career in the Church of England, and his clerical duties were largely centred in his home county. He held multiple ecclesiastical appointments throughout his life, including Rector of Campsey Ash and Perpetual Curate of Trimley St Martin. He was also a Prebendary of [[Lincoln Cathedral]]. Kilderbee was a respected member of Ipswich society, known for his learning and his connections.He married Jane Edgar, and they had several children. His son, the Rev. Orbell Kilderbee (1773–1840), also became a clergyman and was painted by Gainsborough alongside his wife.
Relationship with Thomas Gainsborough
Kilderbee's most significant historical association is with the renowned portrait and landscape painter Thomas Gainsborough. The two were close friends, particularly during Gainsborough's early career in Suffolk and even after the artist moved to Bath and later London. Kilderbee was not only a personal friend but also a patron, commissioning works from Gainsborough. He frequently visited Gainsborough in London and provided support and companionship.Following Gainsborough's death in 1788, Kilderbee played a crucial role in managing the artist's estate and legacy. He was one of Gainsborough's executors, a testament to the trust and esteem the painter held for him. Kilderbee was instrumental in organizing the memorial exhibition of Gainsborough's works held at Schomberg House, Pall Mall, which allowed the public and art world to appreciate the full breadth of Gainsborough's talent. He also owned a significant number of Gainsborough's paintings and drawings, helping to preserve them for posterity. Gainsborough painted a portrait of Samuel Kilderbee, now held in the collection of the [[Tate Gallery]].
Later Life and Death
Samuel Kilderbee continued his clerical duties and remained a respected figure in Suffolk until his death. He passed away on 16 October 1836 at the age of 86. He is remembered not only for his own contributions as a clergyman but primarily for his enduring friendship with and patronage of one of Britain's most celebrated artists, Thomas Gainsborough, and for his efforts in preserving the artist's memory and work.References
- Hayes, John. Thomas Gainsborough. Tate Gallery, 1969.
- Woodall, Mary. The Letters of Thomas Gainsborough. Cupid Press, 1963.
- Various biographical sources on Thomas Gainsborough and the history of Suffolk.