Thomas Scott

Doig Wilson & Weatley, Edinburgh, where bought by Sir David Scott in March 1947 for 12 guineas 

SHEET The sheet has been laid onto card. Some light discolouration visible to edges but otherwise in good overall condition. MEDIUM Minor fading. FRAME Held in a simple wood frame; under glass
"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."

'Tom Scott was a Selkirk artist, rather too fond of the bottle, who often paid his pub bills with pictures. He could be very good indeed, as he is in this distant view of the isolated and magnificent castle of Hermitage.' Sir David Scott

Hermitage Castle, was probably built by the master mason John Lewin of Durham, and dates from the end of the 1300s. Throughout the fifteenth century possession of the castle was contested by the English and the Scots, and additional fortifications were built around the core. This bleak and imposing fortress, set next to the beautiful Hermitage Water, surrounded by open moorland, is now administered by Historic Scotland and is open to the public. The castle and the estate were given to Sir David Scott's forbears in 1594.