Alexander Cozens

With The Fine Art Society, London, 1947
Victor Reinacker;
C. Dawnay

The brown washes have largely remained intact and the overall appearance is fresh. At the centre of the lower edge of the sheet there has been a skilful restoration, as there has been in the extreme top right hand corner. In a raking light there is a silvery line visible, but this can only be seen occasionally. The work is not laid down and in general it is well preserved.
"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."

Stylistically this drawing can be dated to the late 1760s and it illustrates well Cozens’ interest in classical ideals. Alexander Cozens’ importance in the development of British landscape painting cannot be over-emphasised. Not only was he a significant theorist, who published a number of ground-breaking artistic treatises, but he was also a drawings master, employed firstly at Christ’s Hospital (1750-1754), and then at Eton College (1759-1779). His long list of pupils included William Beckford, Sir George Beaumont and the children of George III, while his son, John Robert Cozens (1752-1797), went on to influence Turner and many of his generation.

The present drawing was formerly in the collection of Victor Reinacker. He owned a number of works by Cozens and, in 1953, wrote a book on John Sell Cotman.