Attributed to John Bowen (died 1773), North East prospect of Shrewsbury, oil on canvas, 68.5 x 182cm, frame 76 x 191cm

Note: John Bowen was the son of an artist and well regarded for his architectural accuracy, exemplified by this painting and a number of his other works in Shrewsbury Museum's collection. It is worth noting that Saint Julian's (with a tower), Saint Mary's and Saint Alkmund's Church (from left to right in the centre) are all shown as one would expect of an 18th century depiction, but more interestingly, Old Saint Chads Church is shown to the left of this group, before its tower collapsed on 8th July 1788. Given the new English Bridge, that was built from 1769-1774, is not evident and nor are the changes to the Abbey (on the far left), which lost its southern aspect following Thomas Telford's London Road construction, this depiction must pre-date 1769, but as yet, a more precise date has yet to be ascertained for this aspect.

We are grateful to Shrewsbury Museum for their assistance and help in cataloguing this lot.

Label verso- loaned by Rev. J.T. R----, Baschurch Vicarage. Rev J.T. Ryder was a vicar of Baschurch from 1883-1912

Condition Report

The painting is on a later 19th century stretcher with some paint losses to the edge of the canvas, particularly to the top right which measures 2 x 0.5 cm. There are some old woodworm holes to the upper outer edge, some nails are visible. There is craquelure throughout with some minor losses in the paint including to the bottom edge. There is a poor diagonal restoration repair below St Chads church measuring 10 x 2 cm with a patch verso. There is a hole above the sheep below the Abbey. The canvas has some loss of tension and could benefit from tightening. There is an abrasion above the farmhouse near the Abbey. Frame has wear and tear including surface losses.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.