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Camden / Charles Pratt 18C
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Camden / Charles Pratt 18C
CHARLES PRATT 1st EARL CAMDEN Lord Chancellor of England
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Media ID 604280
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10129251
1714 1794 Camden Chain Chancellor Pratt
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking 18th century portrait captures Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden (1699-1771), during his tenure as Lord Chancellor of England from 1756 to 1761. Pratt, who was created Earl Camden in 1761, is depicted wearing the traditional robes and ermine-trimmed mantle of the Lord Chancellor, as well as the symbolic Chain of Office. The Chain of Office, first introduced in 1558, is a symbol of the Lord Chancellor's position as the principal law officer and chief adviser to the monarch on legal matters. Born into a prominent family, Pratt began his legal career in the Inner Temple and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a Serjeant-at-Law in 1732 and a Member of Parliament in 1734. He was appointed Solicitor General in 1746 and Attorney General in 1754, before being named Lord Chancellor in 1756. During his time in office, Pratt was known for his efforts to reform the legal system and improve the administration of justice. He introduced several important legal reforms, including the Murder Act of 1752, which abolished the death penalty for a range of lesser offenses and replaced it with transportation to the American colonies. He also played a key role in the passage of the Marriage Act of 1753, which regularized common law marriage and helped to reduce the number of clandestine marriages. After leaving office, Pratt continued to play an active role in public life, serving as a Member of Parliament and acting as a mediator in various political disputes. He was also a prolific writer and scholar, publishing several works on legal and historical topics. This portrait, which captures him in the prime of his career, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of 18th century English politics and the role of the Lord Chancellor in the administration of justice.
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