Waller Hugh Paton, R.S.A., R.S.W.

J. S. Maas & Co., London, where bought by Sir David Scott in January 1974 for £75

SHEET The sheet has been laid down. MEDIUM Very minor fading to colours and minor spots of foxing visible to sky area. Otherwise good condition. FRAME Held in a simple gilt-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."

The coastal path around the small fishing port of East Wemyss is famous for its caves. Paton chose to paint one of the largest and took an almost Ruskinian delight in its rock strata. 

Waller Hugh Paton was born in Dunfermline, Scotland, in 1828, and was the brother of Sir Joseph Noel Paton. Until 1848 he worked as an assistant to his father, a damask designer. He then became a pupil of John Adam Houston. He exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy from 1851, and was elected a member in 1865. Thirteen years later he became a member of the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolours.  In 1860 he spent some time in London copying the work of Turner and he made two trips to Europe, in 1861 and 1868.