John Sell Cotman

with Michael Spratt, London, until 1987

The medium has remained strong and the work has been well preserved. There is some very minor creasing and rubbing which has taken place over time consistent with the age and fragility of the work. It has been presented to a high standard. For further information on this lot please contact either Mark Griffith-Jones (0207 293 5083) or Emmeline Hallmark (0207 293 5407) mark.griffithjones@sothebys.com emmeline.hallmark@sothebys.com
"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."

Postwick Grove is on the River Yare, to the east of Norwich. Cotman was born in St Mary Coslany near Norwich. After some years as a student in London, Cotman returned in 1810. He founded the Norwich Society of Artists and remained in the area until 1834. Other works of a similar subject to the present work include a watercolour and a drawing dating from the 1830s (British Museum: BM 1902-5-14-115 and BM 1902-5-14-29).