Attributed to Paul Sandby R.A.

Sale, London, Christie's, 30 January 1948, lot 53;
with The Heffer Gallery, Cambridge, by 1956, by whom sold in 1956 (as Edward Dayes), to Walter Brandt

The more delicate watercolour pigments in this work have faded slightly and there is minor light staining to the sheet. At the extreme left and upper edges of the work, there are areas of paper and pigment loss. These defects are hidden behind the current mount. Throughout the sheet there are minor areas of restoration, connected with small repaired tears and foxmarks. The sheet has been laid down.
"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."

St. Augustine's Abbey at Canterbury dates from the time of Abbot Fyndom (1283-1309). After the suppression of the monasteries the Abbot's house was converted into a private residence. The last owner, Sir Edward Hales, removed much of the stone for use in the construction of his own seat. In 1844 what remained of the buildings and grounds were bought by Beresford Hope M.P. who placed them at the disposal of the church.¹

1. See Country Life, 25 February 1965, p. 403