SHACKLETON, Sir Ernest Henry (1874-1922). Explorer.
Letter Signed to [Charles] Buchel (Karl August Büchel, 1872-1950, artist), 1 page 8vo with blank leaf (torn), Marlborough Club, Pall Mall, 21 December 1919. Arranging an appointment, apparently for a sitting for his portrait.

'I'm so sorry rush of work has prevented me from going up to you. Will you tell me your new address, and I'll come for a final sitting directly after Xmas.
 'With the Season's Compliments.'

Buchel is best remembered for his theatircal posters and stage designs, but examples of his portraiture in oils are in the National Portrait Gallery and the Garrick Club. The present whereabouts of the portrait of Shackleton are not known. This, and two related letters, are the only evidence for its existence.
 Shackleton's last expedition was to be in the Quest, which sailed in September 1920 for a scientific exploration of the sub-Antartic and Oceanic islands, arriving in South Georgia on 4 January 1922. He died on board the ship at Grytviken the following day and is buried there.
 The Marlborough Club merged in 1945 with the Orleans Club to form the Marlborough Windham Club. The new combined club closed in 1953 and the premises became offices.
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