Magdalen Asylum, Dublin: a collection in the chapel. Pencil drawing attributed to McCain.

The Magdalen Asylum was a refuge for unmarried and deserted mothers, for their children, and for foundlings

The chapel is shown as a long building with an apse at the east end, a pulpit with a large sounding board, and a gallery on the north side. It contains a large congregation, from whom the Count de Salis is taking the collection. In the foreground, on the left are some of the inmates, with bare feet, while the well-shod visitors are on the right

The man bowing may be Jerome, 4th Count de Salis-Soglio (1771-1836), who was a landowner with extensive estates around Lough Gur, County Limerick. His family originated from the Grisons in Switzerland, and had the title of Count of the Holy Roman Empire. Alternative candidates include Peter John Fane de Salis, 5th Count de Salis-Soglio (1799-1870). "Mr Parnell" may possibly be John Henry Parnell (1811-1859)

[Dublin], [between 1800 and 1899]

1 drawing : pencil ; sheet 23.3 x 27.7 cm

Magdalen Asylum, Dublin. The Count De Salis with Mr Parnell collecting. The Count bows in French style not aware that he treads on the lady's foot behind. Attributed to Mr McCain Lettering is on verso

Wellcome Collection 47561i