George Morland, British 1763-1804- Figures outside their cottage in a wooded landscape; oil on canvas, signed and dated 1789, bears labels to the reverse, 51.5x66.5cm Provenance: Charles Higgens; Christie’s, London, 15th June 1891, lot 35; Mrs L.M. Mirrey, Anonymous sale; Christie's, London, 22nd March 1974, lot 165; Christie's, London, 14th November, 2019, lot 35 Note: Both Morland’s father and grandfather were distinguished artists, encouraging his artistic talent from childhood, eventually leading him to exhibit at the Royal Academy by the age of fifteen and by 1784, Morland had already produced many successful works, frequently imitated and copied. He married the sister of the engraver William Ward in 1876, with Ward marrying Morland's sister shortly afterwards, cementing a lifelong artistic partnership. Multiple prints were made of Morland’s works, which were widely circulated, helping to increase his reputation. From 1788 to 1789, fifty-nine engravings after Morland were produced. Morland routinely depicted an English ideal of childhood. Despite his commercial success and ability to carry out his painting with relative ease and speed, money troubles forced him out of London into the country. However, this stay in a country cottage in Leicestershire is thought to have improved his appreciation of nature and ability as a landscapist. Please refer to department for condition report