Joseph Mallord William Turner, R.A.

Probably Dr. Thomas Monro (1759-1833);
with P. & D. Colnaghi, London

This watercolour is in good condition. Many of the pigments are still strong, although the paper has darkened a little. There are occasional minor foxmarks. The work 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."

This recently rediscovered watercolour dates to circa 1796. Its composition is taken from a drawing by John Robert Cozens that survives in the fourth volume of a series of sketchbooks that he used while travelling in Italy in 1782-3.¹ The identity of the view is assured, as Cozens inscribed his sketch with the words: ‘Porto Paone, a bay in the island of Nisida, which was evidently the crater of a volcano.’²

Cozens' sketchbooks, from that Continental tour, are now in the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester. However, in the 1790s, they may have belonged to Dr Thomas Monro, who nursed Cozens in his final years. Turner often visited Monro’s home at this time where, along with other young artists, he was encouraged to copy from the extensive collection. We would like to thank Ian Warrell for his help when cataloguing this work.

<sup>1. C.F. Bell & T. Girtin, ‘The Drawings and Sketches of John Robert Cozens’, Walpole Society, vol. XXIII, 1934-1935, p. 62, no. 288
2. Ibid</sup>