David Roberts R.A.

Sir George Verdon (1834-1896);
sale, London, Christie's, 21 November 1978, lot 102;
with Spink's, London;
with Christopher Wood, London, by whom sold to the present owner

 

This watercolour has been carefully presented. Although the pencil and bodycolour has remained clear, the watercolour pigments have faded slightly. The paper has discoloured and there is evidence of mount-staining at the extreme edges of the sheet. There is some very minor scattered foxing to the sheet. The drawing has been laid down.
"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."

Roberts executed this drawing on the 14^th September 1846. Earlier that year, he had been commissioned by Mr. Hogarth to contribute towards his book Scotland Delineated (published 1847-52). In order to gather material for this project, between September and October, Roberts conducted a sketching tour of northern England and Scotland.

Lindisfarne Priory is situated on Holy Island on the Northumberland Coast, only a few miles from the Scottish border. The monastery was founded in 635, by the Irish-born Saint Aiden and prospered until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1537.