Lot 321
  • 321

David Roberts, R.A.

Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • David Roberts, R.A.
  • Two studies of the Town Hall of Leuven - a double-sided sheet
  • Both watercolour over pencil, on wove paper watermarked: J Whatman / 1825;
    the recto signed lower right: D Roberts RA; inscribed lower left: Town hall / Louvain [sic]; the verso inscribed: Townhall / Louvain [sic] Jun[e] 24th 1825  
  • 365 by 265 mm

Condition

This watercolour is in good condition. The pigments have remained strong and fresh. There is a little surface dirt to the sheet but there overall impression is very good. The sheet is not 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."

Catalogue Note

David Roberts made this large study in 1825, while travelling for the first time on the Continent. He was accompanied by the marine and landscape painter ‘Jock’ Wilson and on the 24th June they were in Leuven, about thirty miles to west of Brussels. In this work he depicts the Town Hall from two different perspectives. The exceptionally beautiful gothic building, with its lace-like details, dates to the middle of the 15th century and still forms the focal-point of the town today.