Edward Dayes

Estimate

3,000 - 4,000 GBP

bidding is closed

Description

Edward Dayes
Rocks on the Shore of the Bay of Scapa, Orkney
signed l.l.: E Dayes, inscribed on the original mount l.l.: No. 5., l.c.: Rocks on the Shore of the Bay of Scapa where the Party landed. in general the strata of the Coast are horizontal but here they are seen in one place exactly vertical
watercolour over pencil
29 by 41 cm.; 11 ½ by 16 ¼ in.

Provenance

The Rt. Hon. Lord Stanley of Alderley;
Leger Galleries, London, 1967

Condition

The colours have remained clear and visible although there is evidence of some overall fading. There are no foxmarks and the paper appears to be stable. The sheet has not been laid down. Overall, for its age, the work is in good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

This watercolour is one of a small number of known works which Dayes was commissioned to prepare in 1789 from sketches made by John Thomas Stanley (1766-1850) and other hands during an expedition to northern Scotland and parts of Scandinavia. John Thomas Stanley, a friend of Sir Joseph Banks and later 1^st Lord Stanley of Alderley, embarked on this expedition in the summer of 1789. The party numbered twenty-six and sailed in the brig John leaving England on 26^th May.

Stopping off at the Orkneys and the Faroe Islands en route, they reached Iceland on 4^th July, where Stanley was entertained by the Danish Governor, Count Levitzan. On his return, Stanley presented Banks with the collection of dried plants which he had gathered and gave his sketches to Edward Dayes and Nicholas Pocock (1740-1821) who both worked on the series of watercolours illustrating his travels. Another work by Dayes from this series was sold in these Rooms, 26 March 2004, lot 103 (£5,520).