English art dealer and writer, Thomson (1855-1930) worked at or managed several major galleries in London and edited the Art Journal. The papers primarily contain professional and personal correspondence. Letters to and from leading artists and social figures trace artistic trends and tastes as well as Thomson’s growing stature in London society. Personal correspondence consists largely of letters between members of Thomson’s family. The collection includes a small number of clippings, itineraries, and ephemera.

David Croal Thomson was born in Edinburgh on October 24, 1855. He studied drawing and painting in Edinburgh, where he also apprenticed as a printseller and artist's colourman (1867), and went on to manage Hill's Picture Gallery and its art publications (1872-1880). He then went to Paris to continue his studies in art.

circa 3100 items (4.75 lin. ft.)

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