Elihu Yale: Merchant, Collector & Patron

by Diana Scarisbrick, Benjamin Zucker

Original research sheds light on the fascinating biography of one of Yale University’s early supporters Elihu Yale's name is famous for the great educational institution, Yale University, of which he was an early benefactor. He made his fortune in India, mostly through trading in diamonds. Arriving in Madras in 1672, through his outstanding abilities he rose through the hierarchy of the East India Company settlement from clerk to governor. When he returned to London in 1699 he brought with him Indian gems, furniture, and textiles, and proceeded to amass a collection of some ten thousand items, dispersed at seven auction sales after his death in 1721. The catalogs of these sales survive, providing information about the lively London art market. Hitherto neglected by historians, the Yale sales prove to be a landmark in the history both of collecting and of auctioning art in early 18th-century England. The authors explore Elihu Yale’s life and interests, and then turn to a study of Yale as a dealer (particularly of gems) and a collector of diamonds and jewelry, works of art, furniture, books, and other objects―some of which are now at Yale University, and some in national collections around Britain.   140 illustrations

288 pages, Hardcover

First published June 17, 2014

Reviews

[Beth Shultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very comprehensive biography of Mr. Yale. Enjoyed it for the most part. I did not care so much for the info on his collecting furniture. Won this book from goodreads.

[Tyler Kania · Rating 3 out of 5]

My lifelong best friend descends from Elihu's brother Thomas, and I have been fascinated with the breadth and scope of this family's achievements, which are too numerous to list in this review, but Elihu certainly paved the away with his business success in India, his noteworthy collection of art, gems, and other baubles in England, and his philanthropy in Connecticut.

This pictures and paintings in this book, of old England, India, and Yale's assets, are absolutely incredible, as is the general presentation of this well-made hardcover book.

I could have done without reading over 100 pages of enumerated listings of his collections though.

[Isabel · Rating 2 out of 5]

For a book titled Elihu Yale, it contained very limited information about Elihu Yale himself. Great if you want to learn more about collecting and high art circa 1700, bad if you're a future Yale student trying to bone up on cultural biography. Would not recommend.