Purchased from the artist by the Glasgow Art Union;
Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 9 July 2009, lot 32.

London, Royal Academy, 1846, no. 714.

A. MacGeorge, WM. Leighton Leitch, 1884, pp. 88-89.

ENGRAVED:
by W.J.Linton, 1846 and L. Forrest, 1856.

There is an old glue relining. Surface is clean. This painting is in overall good condition. The paint surface has been well retained and there is lovely detail and coloration. Examination under UV light reveals some retouches in the upper sky. Retouching can be seen on the arches of the aqueduct at left side and in the foliage at the far middle left. There are other minor cosmetic retouches scattered here and there in the composition. These have been well applied and there is no need for further work. Painting can be hung as is. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame.
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.

Born in Glasgow in 1804, William Leighton Leitch began his artistic career as an apprentice to a local sign painter. He then worked as a scene painter, first at the Glasgow Royal Theater and later in London at the Queen’s Theater and the Pavillion. At this time, he also traveled to Italy, gaining experience and amassing a large body of sketches and watercolors.

This painting is an imaginary Roman landscape, a combination of classical ruins with contemporary figures and a demonstration of the artists continued interest in Italy.