William Callow, RWS (British, 1812-1908) The town of Poitiers, France bears title on the reverse watercolour with scratching out 27.3 x 38.1cm (10 3/4 x 15in). Footnotes: In late June 1836, William Callow passed through Poitiers on a walking tour of the area. It is highly likely that this watercolour was painted during his visit to the town which was documented in his diary, an extract from which is below. 'After walking for four and a half leagues we reached Poitiers, well known for its battlefield. It is an interesting town, containing many curiosities, including the remains of a Roman amphitheatre. Visited the very fine cathedral of St. Pierre and the church of St. Jean. As it was the veille of the latter saint, bonfires were lit by the priests in the town. Had a beautiful view from the height which is on one side of the town. June 24 - Made some sketches in the morning, and left Poitiers in the afternoon, and, passing though the village of Crontille, with a very pretty country all the way, arrived at Vivonne at nine o'clock.' William Callow R.W.S. F.R.G.S. An Autobiography, Ed. H.M. Cundall, London, 1908, p. 41. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com