James Ward, R.A.

P & D Colnaghi, London where bought by Sir David Scott in July 1970

SHEET The sheet has been laid down and uneven edges are visible within the mount. Some light scattered surface dirt and handling marks are visible around the edges; the marks are more notable at the upper and lower right corners. Some discolouration throughout. FRAME Held in 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."

The style of this drawing is consistent with Ward's early work in the first two decades of the nineteenth century. The figure of the man sleeping in a stable manger bears similarities with the model that posed for a painting of 1810, The Swineherd (Bristol City Art Galleries). The canine companion in the present picture may  have been based upon Vic, Napoleon's mastiff which was captured at Vittoria in the Peninsular War. Ward painted Vic around 1820 (private collection). The confident style of the drawing is similar to Ward's annotated notebooks from the period 1810 to 1825 held at the Royal Academy Library.