John Varley, O.W.S. (1778-1842)

This view shows Bolton Abbey, on the banks of the river Wharfe, in Wharfedale, Yorkshire. Varley painted the view a number of times, attracted by the composition of the ruin set within trees beside the winding river, and the hills beyond. A watercolour with an almost identical composition, but in reverse, was sold at Sotheby's, 15 November 1990, lot 78, while similar watercolour views are in the collections of Bradford Art Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum.