Charles Wynne Nicholls, R.H.A.

Sotheby's, Belgravia, 9 July 1974, lot 73, where bought by J. S. Maas, on behalf of Lady Scott for £520

STRUCTURE The panel is in good stable condition. PAINT SURFACE Scattered surface dirt but otherwise in good condition. ULTRAVIOLET UV light reveals a small patch of retouching to the sky, upper left, and some outlining to the dresses. Minor scattered spots eslewhere. FRAME Held in a simple gold painted 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."

The Irish born C. W. Nicholls seems to have had a particular fondness for subjects set on beaches or at the seaside. Here two elegantly dressed young women watch with excitement as a couple of men approach. Two years earlier he had painted a work now entitled On the Beach: a Family on Margate Sands (Scarborough Art Gallery, Laughton Loan), showing a mother and father and their children, and with a view of the beach and bathing machines. Nicholls's subject, The Tomb of Grace Darling, which was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1866 and which appeared as an engraving in the Art Journal in 1872, included a view of the Northumberland coastline as well as a group of children.

The present picture relates to a similar composition by Nicholls entitled Two Ladies on a Beach dated 1869 which was sold at Christies, 26 April 1974, lot 35.