British Watercolours & Drawings 1550-1850

T his department sells and values an exceptional range of British works on paper from the Golden Age of British Watercolours (1750–1850) through the Victorian era, including important drawings and watercolours by leading artists such as Gainsborough, Cozens, Constable, and Turner. Our auctions also feature British and Continental portrait miniatures from the Tudor and Stuart periods through the 19th century, offering fine examples by renowned miniaturists including Hilliard, Oliver, Smart, and Cosway.

Our London‑based specialists have unrivalled expertise in British watercolours and portrait miniatures, earning the trust of both collectors and institutions worldwide. Their leadership in the market is reflected in the department’s outstanding track record: of the top ten Turner watercolours ever sold at auction, nine were sold by Sotheby’s, and we were the first auction house to achieve over £1 million for a single Turner watercolour. This consistent performance underscores Sotheby’s position as the premier destination for collectors seeking the finest British works on paper.

British watercolours in this category are offered in London in July and in New York in January, where they benefit from being presented alongside Old Master drawings to maximize visibility and reach. In addition to our marquee sales, Sotheby’s also maintains a strong record in private treaty transactions, offering discreet, expert‑led opportunities for collectors to buy and sell significant works on paper throughout the year.