Charles Fairfax Murray

The sheet appears sound and the work in good overall condition. Held in a simple gilt frame under glass; unexamined out of 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."

This watercolour probably dates from c.1880-85 and relates to an oil on panel (Delaware Art Museum) purchased in 1893 by Samuel and Mary Bancroft who formed one of the finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art with Murray's help and advice. In 1880 William Morris published with Eirikr Magnusson a translation from the Icelandic of Three Northern Love Stories, which included 'The Story of Gunnlaug the Worm-Tongue and Raven the Skald'. The watercolour illustrates: 'Now, one morning as the brothers Hermund and Gunnlaug went to Axe-water to wash, on the other side went many women towards the river, and in the company was Helga the Fair. Then said Hermund. 'Dost thou see thy friend Helga there on the other side of the river?' Surely I see her says Gunnlaug…Therewith they crossed the river, and Helga and Gunnlaug spake awhile together, and as the brothers crossed the river eastward back again, Helga stood and gazed long after Gunnlaug.'