John Herbert Caddy (Canadian, 1801-1887),Three Topographical Views of the West Indies: Two Depicting Brimstone Hill, St. Kitts, One De

Description:

John Herbert Caddy (Canadian, 1801-1887)

Three Topographical Views of the West Indies: Two Depicting Brimstone Hill, St. Kitts, One Depicting The Pitons or Sugar Loaves, St. Lucia
Unsigned, attributed in pencil inscriptions on the back of the frames.
Watercolor on paper, sight sizes to 11 1/4 x 16 7/8 in. (28.4 x 43.1 cm),framed.
Condition: Toning, staining, not examined out of frames.

N.B. Lieutenant John Herbert Caddy of the British Royal Artillery was one of many amateur artists who depicted the landscape of the West Indies in the 19th century. Caddy did two tours of duty in the British West Indies between 1828 and 1838. A series of his watercolors was reproduced as colored aquatints by Ackermann in London in 1838. The aquatints and Caddy's career were the subject of an article in The Magazine Antiques by Neville Connell, March, 1972.
Estimate $1,000-1,500

The smaller watercolor showing Brimstone Hill measures 7 3/8 x 10 7/8 inches, and the work bears a subtle, applied pencil grid for transfer. There is toning, scattered foxing, and acid burn to the edges of the sheer. Sheet laid down on a lightweight wood or paperboard panel, and there is some staining from the glue. Framed dimensions are 9 x 12 1/2 inches.

The larger watercolor of Brimstone Hill measures 11 5/8 x 17 3/8 inches. When the frame was opened, the work was found to bear the initials "J.R." l.l. at edge, possibly a collector's mark or similar, which had been covered by the lip of the frame. Toning, abrasion to u.l. quadrant. Sheet laid down on a lightweight wood or paperboard panel. Framed dimensions are 13 1/8 x 19 inches. Label from Merwin's Art Shop, New Haven, Connecticut, on the frame backing paper.

The Pitons sheet measures 10 3/4 x 16 1/2 inches and is laid down on paperboard support. Old tears to both sides of the sheet, the largest tear located at center left side measuring 2 inches and cutting across the rock cliff on the left. Toning to the sheet which is particularly noticeable in the sky closer to the horizon. Wear to the edges of the sheet. Framed dimensions are 12 1/8 x 18 inches, with a label from Kaye's Art Gallery, New Haven, Connecticut, on the frame backing paper.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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