542 - W. WATTS (*1752) after RICHARDS (18th century), Halfwell in Somerset, 1780, Etching

W. WATTS (*1752) after RICHARDS (18th century), Halfwell in Somerset, 1780, Etching William Watts (1752 – 1851 ) after J. Richards (18th century): Halfwell in Somersetshire, the country estate of Sir Charles Kemeys Tynte, featuring a park and pavilion, 1780, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: Good impression, somewhat pale at the bottom. Some scratches in the sky. Inscription: Signed in the lower part of the printing plate: “J. Richards R.A. pinxt. / W. Watts sculp.” Inscribed in the lower part of the printing plate: “Halfwell, in Somersetshire, the Seat of Sir Charles Kemeys Tynte, Bart. / Published as the Act directs, January 1, 1780, by W. Watts, Knightsbridge Road, Chelsea". Date: 1780 Description: Extensive parkland featuring a prestigious country estate on a tranquil stretch of water. On the left, a round, temple-like pavilion with a dome and columns stands on a hill; on the right, a multi-story manor house rises beyond the bank. In the foreground, a man and a horse are pulling a small carriage, with other figures strolling alongside, some in pairs, some with dogs. The figures are wearing contemporary long robes or cloaks and tricorns. A large, cloudy sky dominates the upper half of the painting. Delicate parallel lines, dense hatching, and graduated tonal values render the terrain, groups of trees, the water’s surface, and atmospheric depth. The scenery combines topographical accuracy with an idealized park idyll. Source: William Watts (1752–1851), *The Seats of the Nobility and Gentry, in a Collection of the Most Interesting and Picturesque Views*, 1779 | Book, Architecture Keywords: Country estate; Manor house; Pavilion; Rotunda; Parkland; Lake; Shore; Group of trees; Staffage figures; Horse; Cart; Walker; Dog; Cloudy sky; Topography; England; Somerset; Architectural view; Engraving; Noble residence; 18th century; Classicism; Architecture; United Kingdom; Size: Paper: 19.9 cm x 24.7 cm (7.8 x 9.7 in), Plate: 15.2 cm x 20.2 cm (6 x 8 in), Image area: 12.5 cm x 18.4 cm (4.9 x 7.2 in) Condition: In rather good condition. Wide-margined sheet with slight age-related paper toning, a few small stains, minimal unevenness at the margins, and discreet signs of use; uncut along the left margin of the sheet. Several scratches in the image. The corners of the sheet are slightly bumped.