Alexander Nasmyth

Commissioned as one of a pair, together with a signed View of Portencross Castle, Ayrshire, by John Craufurd of Auchenames and Crosbie (1780–1858);
By descent to his son, Edward Henry John Craufurd (1816–1881);
By descent to his daughter, Katherine Yseult Craufurd (b.1866);
Thence by family descent.

The canvas has old relining. There are signs of repair along the upper and lower margins and other than a very few minor retouchings, and a slightly uneven varnish, the painting remains in excellent condition throughout.
"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."

John Craufurd inherited the Auchinames and Crosbie estates, in Renfrewshire and Ayshire, from his uncle, John Craufurd (circa1742–1814). Crosbie Castle had been granted to Hugh Craufurd in 1263 by King Alexander, and during the thirteenth century served as the home of his grandson, Sir Ranald Craufurd, an uncle of William Wallace. The castle and its estate remained in the Craufurd (or Crawford) family, heads of the Clan Crawford, until the early twentieth century.

An aquaintance of Charles Eastlake and Joseph Severn at Rome, John Craufurd served as a local magistrate in Ayshire, and treasurer to the Ionian Isles.