Arthur Wellington Fowles

Sotheby's, London, 17 March 1982, lot 7;
Agnew's, London, where purchased by the father of the present owner c.1983

The canvas has been lined, otherwise the work appears in good overall condition, ready to hang. Ultraviolet light reveals some localised flecks of retouching in the sky and a couple of slightly larger areas by the horizon on the left edge. Held in a gilt plaster frame.
"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."

Arthur Wellington Fowles was a native to the Isle of Wight and his work predominantly decpicted the local yachting scene but he also documented notable occasions concerning the Isle. The present work had been thought to depict the arrival of Tsar Nicholas I at Cowes aboard the Commodore, who was a keen sailor and a member of the Royal Yacht Squadron, the prestigious club based in Cowes. However, the painting in fact depicts the yacht of a member of the Imperial Yacht Club of Russia. To the left can be seen the Earl of Yarborough's barquentine Kestrel flying the Commodore's burgee of the Royal Yacht Squadron and between them can be seen Lord Alfred Paget's cutter Mona. In the background can be seen East Cowes Castle.