David Cox, Sen., O.W.S. (1783-1859)

The composition of this watercolour is reminiscent of the work of J.M.W. Turner, R.A. (1775-1887).

Henry Vaughan, the original owner of this watercolour, was one of the last great 19th Century connoisseurs, who dedicated his life and considerable fortune to the formation of a major collection ranging from Old Masters to contemporary artists, which he then gifted to benefit a number of public institutions. Vaughan presented The Hay Wain by Constable to the National Gallery in London and in 1887 gave five important drawings by Michelangelo and three by Raphael to the British Museum. Above all Vaughan was a great lover of Turner. As part of the Vaughan Bequest, the National Gallery of Ireland received thirty-one watercolours by Turner and the National Gallery of Scotland, thirty-eight.