Hugh William 'Grecian' Williams

With Maple & Co., London;
With The Fine Art Society, London, 1991.

As to be expected for a work of this scale the colours have softened in this watercolour and the sheet has discoloured somewhat. The work has slipped slightly in its mount and the extreme upper edge of the sheet can be seen. Overall it is in generally good condition. The work has not been seen out of its 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."

Hugh ‘Grecian’ Williams was brought up in Edinburgh and established his reputation, due to an extended tour of Italy and Greece between 1816 and 1818. ‘The material he gathered on this journey was central to his output for the remainder of his career, and earned him the name ‘Grecian’ Williams, by which he is known’.¹ Williams was friends which J.M.W. Turner and was a founding member of the London based Associated Artists in Water-Colours and the Edinburgh based Associated Society of Artists.

1. J. L. Caw, rev. M. Campbell, Hugh William Williams, The Dictionary of National Biography, on-line edition