A newly-discovered painting of ‘Greenwich from the River’ reveals what life was like in Victorian London.
The artwork was discovered by Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons London, at a free antiques valuation event at The Avenue Club, Kew, Richmond upon Thames. Such is the painting’s historical importance it will go to auction on Saturday, April 30 with an estimate of £2,500-£3,500.
The evocative scene was captured by English landscape painter James Francis Danby (1816-1875). His works appeared at the Royal Academy and at the Society of British Artists.
Charles said: “This is an important, and fascinating, historical work. Danby’s painting shows a very different Thames scene to the one we know today. The main focus is on a fishing boat and two fishermen bringing in their haul. Look beyond that and you see numerous small yachts, long rowing boats and London’s architecture in the distance.
“Danby’s most notable works were painted from around 1849 to 1867. We know he enjoyed capturing Thames life as one well-known painting, Morning on the Thames, is dated 1860.
“Interestingly, the River Thames had major problems in Victorian England. By the 1850s, London was the most powerful city in the world but it was also filthy. It had sooty fogs, the river was thick with sewage, streets were covered with mud and there were outbreaks of cholera. This eventually led to the provision of a sewerage system.”
The painting, lot 3, is due to be sold in Hansons London April 30 Fine Art and Antiques Auction. Catalogue at www.hansonslive.co.uk or www.the-saleroom.com.
Hansons London invites entries for its monthly Fine Art and Antiques Auctions. To arrange a free valuation or home visit, or to enquire about house clearance/downsizing, email: [email protected]
