Private Collection, England

B.W.R. Curling, British Racecourses, London 1951, illustrated opposite p.51

STRUCTURE The sheet is in good overall condition. PAINT SURFACE The paint surface is clean with strong original colour and no sign of fading. FRAME Under glass and held in a plaster gilt frame in fair condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In the present work Edwards depicts a splendid and large scale panorama of Epsom racecourse.  By placing the competitors in such a vast expanse, he✃ not only increases the drama of the occasion but also the sense of empathy from the viewer.  His ability to depict the speed and grace of a racehorse is used to the full and one can imagine the roar from the crowd growing ever louder as the race reaches its conclusion.

Race meetings have been held at Epsom Downs since the seventeenth century with the infamous Derby first run in 1780.  That first race, run over a mile was won by Sir Charles Bunbury's Diomed.  Tattenham corner was introduced in 1784 when the🐟 course was extended to its current distance of one and half miles.  The impressive Grandstand, visible in the present work, was built in 1927.