Nicholson O.W.S., Francis (1753 – 1844) – Yorkshire; The River Nidd with Knaresborough in the Distance.

Nicholson was a Yorkshire-man through and through and the majority of his works are Yorkshire subjects. He was born in Pickering and lived at various times in Whitby, Ripon and Knaresborough, where this view was made. He only moved to London in his 50s, becoming a founder member of the Society of Painters in Watercolours in 1804. This small painting, in perfect colour, is a fine example of his ability to enliven a topographical view with a warm glow of light and well observed figures. Knaresborough, sitting upstream above the river Nidd, can be seen in the distance. The famous castle ruin can be seen between trees on the right.