Charles James Lewis, R.I., R.O.I. (1830-1892)

The Art Journal of 1866 commented: 'The landscape shcool of the future boasts of distinguished representatives. Close study of nature in breadth of effect, as well as in atomic details, has found its issue in works which, by their truth and beauty, have silenced hostile criticism. Among younger men who have passed through diligent apprenticeship may be enumerated Mawley, Lewis, W.H. Paton, Field, Breett, Walton, C. Knight and H. Moore. ... Several landscapes by C.J. Lewis, grey, green and liquid, are also after a manner that now obtains favour.'

The picture, with its foreground of primroses and bluebells is presumably that entitled 'Spring time' which Lewis showed at the Royal Academy in 1866, no. 192. It predates 'A Woodland Ramble' which Lewis painted in 1867 and exhibited in 1869 which was sold at Christie's London, 15 November 2007, lot 38.