William James Blacklock

Royal Academy, 1852, no.172

STRUCTURE This picture is relined and in very good condition with rich colouring and fine detail throughout. There are areas of fine craquelure, particularly to the foliage and the clouds but this is only visible upon close inspection. UNDER ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT There are no visible retouchings. FRAME This picture is contained in a moulded gilt frame (with cracks to the mouldings). For more information regarding this picture please contact the Victorian & Edwardian Pictures Department on +44 (0)207 293 5718.
"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."

This painting depicts the chapel that occupies the south-west courtyard at the Derbyshire house of Haddon Hall near Bakewell, the seat of the Manners family. Blacklock painted another view of Haddon Hall in 1848 depicting a man and woman at the foot of the steps at the terrace. Blacklock's work is rare and The Chapel at Haddon Hall is the earliest picture by the artist to have been offered at auction in recent history. Although Blacklock had no direct contact with the members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood his paintings have a similar attention to detail and intensity of clarity.