COTMAN: KIRKHAM PRIORY YORK. John Sell Cotman (1782-1842)

John Sell Cotman (1782-1842) was one of the finest English artists of the Romantic Era. His talent was immediately recognized and in 1800, at the age of 18, he exhibited at the Royal Academy. He returned to his native Norwich in 1806 and travelled throughout southwest England, producing a large number of superb watercolors and etchings. Unlike contemporary "architecturals", his work is soft and appealing on a personal scale. Reminiscent of Piranesi, they reduce the scale from civilizations lost to monuments found in the next village. Original Cotman etching, 1816.  9” x 12” plate size on 12 ¾ X 18 ¾” paper. Exceptional example with a traveler reclining at the ruined church door which is embellished with gargoyles. Titled in the subject above Etched & Published April 30 1811 by J S Cotman Norwich. Human subjects are rare in Cotmans. Very minor foxing well away from the plate. Ready for framing