John Frederick Lewis, R.A.

The artist's estate sale, London, Christie's, 4 May 1877, lot 169, possibly bt. Benson;
William Bowman;
his executors’ sale, London, Christie’s, 24 March 1893, lot 166;
sale, London, Christie's, 18 March 1980, lot 124;
sale, London, Christie's, 23 July 1985, lot 150;
with The Mathaf Gallery, London;
Private Collection, America

The pigments, both bodycolour and watercolour, have survived well. The paper is not discoloured although there are a very number of small foxmarks visible on close inspection. The work is laid down. Overall the condition is good and it is very well presented.
"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 drawing was made in 1850 at Kom Ombo, the great Egyptian ruins that lie on the banks of the Nile to the south of Edfu. In that year Lewis, who had been living in Cairo since 1841, made his only recorded voyage up the great river. We are grateful to Briony Llewellyn and Charles Newton for their help when cataloguing this lot.