William Stone. Malvern, Worcestershire, "Cottage Garden" – pen and watercolour (circa 1870)

"Cottage Garden", with husband and wife beside country lane.

Superb watercolour, on paper, by William Stone (1842-1913) featuring cottage scene in Worcestershire, circa 1870, in a quintessential English country scene.

The painting shows what looks to be a couple talking together in early evening. The woman appears to be kneeling, possibly tending to shrubs, as the light casts a shadow behind her. The cottage is fronted by a lane. To the left are two trees in what appears to be a managed flower bed bordered by railway sleepers.

The Victorian watercolour is signed verso in 1926 as a Christmas gift, indicting the original artist as W Stone.

Stone was born in Warwickshire, England. He was a prolific painter of winter landscapes in England and Wales, particularly around Worcestershire and Herefordshire. He also painted in the USA, and exhibited with the Royal Society of Birmingham Artists. Numerous galleries and museums feature Stone's work. 

Also included with this purchase is information about The Stephen Neale Art Collection, from which the watercolour is taken, a certificate of authenticity, nd a short biograpy of William Stone. 

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL