A large original mid-late 19th century watercolour, beautifully painted with exquisite use of colour and detailing.

The subject matter is intriguing and somewhat of a mystery. The three small children are dwarfed by the gigantic ecclesiastical type door beside them. The heavy-duty iron bars across the open doorway appear to be fixed in place, suggesting a strong desire to protect the contents or people inside the building. Below the iron gate sits a small skinny dog staring eagerly at the children, and they at it. The dogs expression has been captured perfectly in minute detail, not easily achieved with watercolour.

Signed with monogram initials, either WM or MW.

The gilt frame has aesthetic wear- loss of paint and chips to the gesso but structurally fine.

Frame measures 73cm x 58.5cm

Aperture measures 51cm x 36.5cm