John Constable, R.A. 1776-1837

Charles Bostock, his sale in these Rooms, 26 June 1946, lot 71 (bt Agnew's);
R.J. Marnham;
Legatts, London, by 1948;
Dr. H. A. C. Gregory

Constable has used a sheet of wove paper to support this drawing and, at present, it is laid down on to another sheet and adhered to an overlay mount at the edges. This mount has somewhat stained the edges over the years. Medium: the delicate watercolour pigments are a little faded though generally are in a good condition.
"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."

From his earliest years Constable made a ‘sustained and detailed study of the landscape and landmarks around the village of East Bergholt’, (Graham Reynolds, The Early Paintings and Drawings of John Constable, 1996, p. x). Although he moved to London in 1799, Constable frequently returned to Suffolk in the summer months. The church at East Bergholt was of particular importance and Constable depicted it in pencil, watercolour and oil and from a variety of different views. It has been suggested that the present work dates from 1805, a year when Constable drew a watercolour entitled East Bergholt Church from the East (National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa).