Charles Bentley O.W.S. (1805-1855) - Boating on a Continental Lake

Charles Bentley was predominantly a marine artist who was initially apprenticed to the engraver Theodore Fielding (a brother of the more famous Copley Fielding). For the apprenticeship Bentley spent time in Paris and worked on plates after Richard Parkes Bonington. This close study enabled Bentley to learn the style of Bonington and this in turn shaped his own working methods. In fact, sometimes works by Bentley have been misattributed to Bonington. Bentley also became close friends to William Callow whilst in Paris and the two helped each other develop as artists. They travelled together on sketching tours including to Normandy on several occasions between 1836 and 1841.
 
This highly detailed watercolour depicts a continental lake scene that may be from France, Germany or Switzerland. It is very much in the style of Callow and may have been done on a trip with him. The building in the distance appears distinct and could help in identifying the location.
 
Medium: watercolour with scratching out on paper, 21.2 x 30.4cm, framed (38 x 50.7cm).
 
Provenance: Albany Gallery, 14 Mason's Yard, St James's, London (label verso); Thos Agnew & Sons, 43 Old Bond Street, London, stock no: DB 2376 (label verso).
 
Condition report: generally in good condition for its age. There are a few small foxing marks, please see photos which help to show these. The frame shows a bit of wear.