Benjamin Williams Leader, R.A.

STRUCTURE The canvas is original. There is some extremely minor craquelure to the paint surface in places and some tiny spots of surface dirt. Otherwise the work is in good original condition and ready to hang. UNDER ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT There are no visible signs of retouching. FRAMED Held in a heavily decorated gold painted composite frame in fair condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Wales was the most fertile source of inspiration for Leader in the early part of his career and he made annual visits from the late 1850s until 1889. The area around Capel Curig and Betws-y-coed was a particularly favoured beauty spot from the earliest years. The artist Henry Holiday recalled in his autobiography that at Betws-y-coed he had encountered Leader and that 'he was doing charming work. His studies from nature were wonderfully fresh and sunny.' Leader's work at this time had a Pre-Raphaelite intensity of detail and colour and recalls the work of John Inchbold and John Brett.