George Smart, d.1846

cut felt and paper collage and watercolour, each in a gilt-metal mounted and reeded contemporary frame

Christie's, London, The Private Collection of Miss Julie Lowenthal Sold on Behalf of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, 10 March 2005, lot 105

These very charming pictures with old marks and scratches to the paper on which the individual pieces are laid, this surface is also discoloured. There is evidence of old moth damage to the pictures. Rubbing and losses to the frames. The condition is generally typical for works by Frant. The inscription on the back of the picture of the postman reads: At Frant there dwell a man of fame, By trade a tailor, Smart by name; Whose studies gave me great delight, For life resembled caught my sight. His walking-stick and letter-case; With Ass in hand, (to where he dwells.) As he returns to Tunbridge Wells. A milestone was also in sight, Which gave the work a natural light: He bore a letter in his hand, Perhaps some favorable demand; The same address'd to Mr Smart, Professor of peculiar art, Whose works appear by no means faint- Sure Ruben's there with brush and paint; Or Aristotle is come back, Who nature sought without respect. There Dogs and Cats like life are seen, The feather'd tribe of red and green, Of Cloth and Velvet they're prepar'd, Appear as tho' by nature rear'd. His Camera Obscura too, And Microscope to take the view Of scenes, which gratify the mind; And you may purchase if inclin'd.
"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."

The inscription on the back of the picture of the postman reads:
At Frant there dwell a man of fame,
By trade a tailor, Smart by name;
Whose studies gave me great delight,
For life resembled caught my sight.
His walking-stick and letter-case;
With Ass in hand, (to where he dwells.)
As he returns to Tunbridge Wells.
A milestone was also in sight,
Which gave the work a natural light:
He bore a letter in his hand,
Perhaps some favorable demand;
The same address'd to Mr Smart,
Professor of peculiar art,
Whose works appear by no means faint-
Sure Ruben's there with brush and paint;
Or Aristotle is come back,
Who nature sought without respect.
There Dogs and Cats like life are seen,
The feather'd tribe of red and green,
Of Cloth and Velvet they're prepar'd,
Appear as tho' by nature rear'd.
His Camera Obscura too,
And Microscope to take the view
Of scenes, which gratify the mind;
And you may purchase if inclin'd.