David Cox, R.W.S

Sir John Swinburne, 6^th Bt. (1762-1860)

The pigments in this watercolour have survived very well. There is the odd very minor foxmark visible in the sky.
"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."

It has been suggested that this large watercolour dates to circa 1814, the year that Cox moved from London to Hereford and published his influential A Treatise on Landscape Painting and Effect in Water-colour. This present watercolour may be associated with Cox’s 1818 Watercolour Society exhibit Ploughing: A Sketch.¹

According to an old label attached to the backboard, this watercolour was once owned by Sir John Swinburne of Capheaton Hall, Northumberland. Sir John was an important supporter of many contemporary artists and owned fine works by Cotman, Cox, Girtin, Turner and Varley.

^{1. N. Solly, Memoir of the Life of David Cox, London 1973, p. 318}