Robert Leman

Mrs Marie Howgate;
her sale, London, Christie's, 12 December 1967, lot 143;
with The Fry Gallery, London, by 1968, by whom sold in 1968 to Walter Brandt

This watercolour has been well preserved and carefully presented. Although some of the more delicate watercolour pigments have faded slightly, the work has retained its original power and boldness. The sheet has darkened in colour a little and there is a old mount-stain visible at the extreme edges. Further to this at the extreme edges of the sheet there are small areas of pigment loss. This work has not 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."

Situated on the north coast of Wales, the village of Llandudno came to prominence as a popular seaside resort in the Victorian era.  In this impressive watercolour Leman depicts the sandy beach of Llandudno Bay, while to the left stands the prominent limestone headland, known locally as the Great Orme. Leman was a member of the Norwich school and a follower of John Sell Cotman. In the 1830's he exhibited regularly at the Norwich Society, however his works are rare and this particular work has been preserved in exceptional condition.