Portrait of Joseph Farington, RA

Sir Thomas Lawrence was one of Joseph Farington's closest friends, and his depiction of him in a romantic rocky landscape is in keeping with Farington's aesthetic interests. The Judges' Lodgings is probably one of the oldest houses standing in Lancaster. It was used regularly from 1827 until 1975 as lodgings for Circuit Judges attending the Assizes. This portrait reflects the artistic tastes of the judges of the time. It is also of significance as Farington was a member of the very old Lancashire family, the Faringtons of Worden Halll and was a regular guest there throughout his life, on his visits to the Lake District.