A fine example of this illustrious artist’s work. A cottage scene where the cottage situated at the side of a stream is in a ruinous state, with figures standing talking on the lane. The piece is typical of the artist’s work with a free use of colour washes onto a quickly worked sketch. The ability to describe the scene is superb with great detail even down to the character of the figures. William Payne was one of the most innovative watercolourists of his time taking the form from pure topography to romanticism. He was hugely influential and became the most popular drawing-master in London. In 1809 he was elected an associate of the Watercolour Society, but left it after the reform of the original society in 1812. During the four years of his connection with the society he sent seventeen drawings to their exhibitions. This watercolour is in good condition with minor marks and discolouration as is only appropriate for an example of this age. The work is mounted on the original mount a...