According to family tradition at Cassiobury Park, Hertfordshire in the mid-19^th century and therefore possibly George Capel-Coningsby, 5th Earl of Essex ( 1757-1839);
Thence by descent at Cassiobury Park, Hertfordshire to George Devereux de Vere Capell, 7th Earl of Essex  (1857-1916);
Thence by family descent to the present owner.

The canvas has a thin relining. The paint surface is clean and secure with its impasto and intricate detail well-preserved. No major damages are apparent. A small patch of retouchings to the clouds upper right and an old, finely restored tear approximately 8cm. long in the sky just above the right hand red building are faintly visible to the naked eye due to the slight discolouration of the retouching work. Inspection under UV light confirms these retouchings and further reveals some light retouchings along the upper, left and right hand margins, presumably in response to some old frame abrasion, and a handful of spot retouchings scattered elsewhere. Offered in a wood and parcel gilt frame in good 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."