John Linnell

Mrs Charlotte Frank, from whom bought by Sir David Scott in September 1957

STRUCTURE The board is sound. PAINT SURFACE There is a light surface scratch running the length of the left hand side. Also a chip to the paint, upper centre and a couple of minor chips in the lower right quadrant. Very minor craquelure and spots of surface dirty but otherwide in good condition. ULTRAVIOLET UV light reveals retouching to foliage, branches and figures in the foreground. FRAME Held in a decorated dark stained composite frame.
"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."

John Linnell was fond of both sunsets and harvesting scenes, and he painted many pastoral compositions over his career. Linnell exhibited Barley Harvesting – Evening at the Royal Academy in 1852, and the present work may relate to this composition (Fig I).

On the 19 February 1987 a folio of drawings was sold in these rooms, amongst which was a pen and ink drawing of this composition inscribed 'Memory Sketch of mountain shepherds J Linnell f. 1870'.