Rev. William Gilpin - Watercolour 'Ullswater, Lake District'

18th Century framed and glazed (later) watercolour/wash by The Rev. William Gilpin (1724 - 1804) 'Ullswater, Lake District' Originally in the collection of E. Croft-Murray, curator of the British Museum's Print Room (see paper label verso). Circa 1776, the watercolour is presented as having been inscribed beneath the mount and is in generally good order although through around 250 years of existence has seen it develop a small brown foxing stain (middle left hand side, see image, not hugely prominent) and also some small 'spots' under the glass, but not on the work itself. The applied label verso reveals salient details and indeed if one delves further into Gilpin's history, it will be found that he was an artist, Church of England Cleric, Schoolmaster, author and travel writer. Gilpin was born in Cumberland, the son of Captain John Barnard Gilpin, a soldier and amateur artist. From an early age, he was an enthusiastic painter, sketcher and collector of prints however whilst his brother Sawrey Gilpin became a full-time professional painter, William opted for a career in the Church, graduating from Queen's college Oxford in 1748. There is a lot more to discover about Gilpin's thoroughly interesting life of achievement and this is easily researched. A little piece of 18th century history. The oval watercolour measures 10cm high and 16cm wide and the frame measures 26cm high x 31cm wide. Please feel free to ask any questions or email for any further information required.