Lot 1142: A Pair of Vintage Xavier Swolfs and S. Francis Smitheman Framed Artworks (Signed)
A pair of vintage Xavier Swolfs and S. Francis Smitheman framed artworks, comprising an original watercolour and a commemorative maritime print. The watercolour on paper depicts a Venetian canal scene with gondolas and mooring poles, rendered in a loose, atmospheric style with a palette of blues, greys, and ochres. It is signed Xavier Swolfs in black ink to the lower right corner. The work is presented in a black-finished wooden frame with a white card mount. The second item is a colour print on paper after an original by S. Francis Smitheman, depicting the SS Great Britain docked at South Street, New York, in 1845. A printed signature reading Smitheman is visible within the image, and the lower margin is inscribed Painted by S. Francis Smitheman, A.T.D., B.A., F.R.S.A., titled The steamship The Great Britain arriving at South Street, New York, on 10th August, 1845 on her maiden voyage, and bears a copyright for the s.s. Great Britain Project. This piece is housed in a dark wood frame with a gilt inner fillet and a white mount. Visible adhesive labels include a white rectangular Lot 1142 sticker, a pink circular 72 sticker, and a small white tag numbered 13.
Condition report:
Both artworks appear to be in good condition. The watercolour shows no visible signs of foxing or light damage (photo 2). The print mount displays minor surface marks and small isolated specks (photo 3). Both frames exhibit light scuffing and wear consistent with age, particularly to the edges of the black frame (photo 2). Items have not been inspected out of their frames.
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