Michael 'Angelo' Rooker A.R.A.

Sale, London, Sotheby's, 10 December 1958, lot 16, to Walter Brandt

Suffolk, Ickworth House, Exhibition of English Water-colours of the Great Period, 1968, no. 51

The medium in this work remains well preserved. The paper has discoloured somewhat and there is a noticable mount-stain at the extreme edges of the sheet. To the left of the church spire, within the sky, is a tiny paper defect and throughout the composition there are occassional repaired foxmarks. These can only be seen on very close inspection. 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."

With minute attention to detail and a wonderful understanding of light, Michael 'Angelo' Rooker has created a true tour de force of watercolour painting in this work. He has chosen to show Shrewsbury from the picturesque perimeter walk around the medieval castle. Known locally as 'The Dana', this walkway was constructed circa 1790, therefore helping to date the present work to the last ten years of the 18^th Century. To the right Rooker includes Shrewsbury School, a building that today serves as the town library.

We would like to thank Phil Scoggins of the Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, for his help in cataloguing this work.