James Smetham

STRUCTURE The scrap-book is bound with black and gold papier mache covers (the front of which has become detached). The spine is missing and the bindings are loose with some detached pages - other pages have been cut-out and are absent. The paper is time-stained and there are areas of staining and foxing. The individual drawings have been pasted into the book.
"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 fascinating and comprehensive album of drawings and studies taken from sketchbooks was compiled by the artist's daughter. It allows us a wonderful insight into subjects that inspired Smetham. The album contains approximately 225 drawings and watercolours of various sizes pasted to forty-five pages. There are studies of animals and botany, portraits and figure sketches and compositions for pictures, including scenes from The Tempest and other romantic and fanciful subjects. Among the landscapes are depictions of Braemar and Hawthondon castles in Scotland.