Sheep crossing a country pathway

This drawing bears the hallmarks of Cotman's early graphic style, using long parallel strokes of graphite to portray grass, contrasting with clusters of small shapes for foliage. The drawing's surface has been rubbed over the years, and it may have been used by Cotman as a teaching drawing, circulated among his pupils. In terms of subject, it could represent a scene near Norwich, such as Postwick Grove, where shepherds drove their flocks through the woods near the River Yare.

The drawing was in the collection of Dr Henry Lowe and Judy Cotman, who, it is assumed, appended a label reading as follows to the backboard: Sheep crossing a Country Pathway, attributed to John Sell Cotman. No signature; attribution in 1945 list is to John Sell. No attribution in 1930, loan to Norwich Castle museum. Condition suggests use as a drawing copy. Provenance Dr J.S. Cotman Family Collection - 1945 list no. 50: 1930-35 Norwich Castle Museum loan list no. 26. 11 Mar 2012. (then in pencil) JSC41 Attribution recognised, 2014.