Edward Lear

Dr C. A. Allington, Head Master and Provost of Eton School, from whom bought by Thomas Agnew & Sons, London;
Bought from Agnew's by Sir David Scott, 14 January 1952 for 14 guineas

SHEET The sheet has been stuck down to the mount. Some light discolouration to the sheet throughout. Otherwise in good overall condition. FRAME Held in a simple wooden 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."

'This is a typical view of the country just outside Rome. It shows how well and easily Lear could draw.' Sir David Scott

'..the drawing I bought is of a scene in the Campagna and shows well his mastery powers of drawing.' Sir David Scott

Lear's journey to Italy in 1837 was sponsored by Lord Derby and his nephew, Robert Stanley, who were both concerned for the artist's health and eager for him to visit Rome.  Although Lear had travelled to the continent with John Gould a few years before, this was his first major trip alone and he was delighted by 'the hurly burly of beauty and wonder' which he encountered on his arrival in the city (Lear to his sister Ann, 3 November 1837; quoted by Vivien Noakes, Edward Lear 1812-1888, London, 1985, p.96).

Apart from two trips to England in 1841 and 1845-6, Lear stayed in Italy for the next ten years, spending the winters in Rome and travelling throughout the summer months.  It is likely that the present drawing dates from the late 1830s, as it compares closely in style to other drawings, such as Val Montone and Isola S. Giulio, Orta (both now in the British Museum), which Lear drew in 1839.  Like these two drawings, the present work is on blue paper.