William Gale

William Graham Esq. of 44 Grosvenor Square, London;
Sold by his executors, Christie's, 2 April 1886, lot 161 bought 'Waller', thence by descent to the present owner

Oliver Garnett, 'The Letters and Collection of William Graham - Pre-Raphaelite Patron and Pre-Raphael Collector', in The Walpole Society, 2000, p.294

STRUCTURE This picture is in good condition. There are small areas of localised bitumenisation, particularly in the upper parts of the trees - this is only visible upon close inspection. The paint surface is a little dirty and may benefit from a light clean. UNDER ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT The picture has an opaque varnish but there are no obvious signs of retouching. FRAME This picture is contained in a simple gilt frame with a gilt mount.
"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."

William Gale exhibited a number of charming genre secenes in the Pre-Raphaelite style, of which the present is an exquisite example - especially notable in the detail of the flowers. A comparable example is in the Tate collection, The Confidant of 1857. Spring Flowers was one of two pictures by Gale owned by the great Pre-Raphaelite and Old Master collector, William Graham, who also owned Rossetti's Proserpine (see following lot).