Thomas J. Rawlins

Thomas J. Rawlins (London 1800-1850) The Billiard Room signed and dated 'T.J. Rawlins/1837' (lower left) pencil and watercolour heightened with touches of bodycolour 4 7/8 x 7 3/8 in. (12.4 x 18.7 cm.) The present drawing is an early depiction of the game of billiards being played in England. The game was originally played outside but King Louis XI of France (1461-1483) had the first indoor billiard table. Billiards grew to the extent that by 1727, it was being played in almost every Paris café. In England, the game was developing into a very popular activity for members of the gentry. The present watercolour probably depicts the game being played in one of the London clubs, though it has not been possible to identify which one.

Thomas J. Rawlins (circa 1800-circa 1850), British SPORTING VIEWS: THE HANGMAN BANK, A BIRD IN THE HAND’’’’S WORTH TWOIN THE BUSH; BLASHAM WOOD (HORSE AND CARRIAGE); THE ROUND WOOD;THREE HUNTERS WITH LOCOMOTIVE IN DISTANCE; HUNTING PARTY WITHELEGANT LADIES AND CHILDREN Five watercolours mounted; three signed and dated 1837, threetitled to the mount in pencil, two numbered Sheets, each approximately 5.20" x 8.00", 13.20 cm x 20.30 cm Est. $2000 / 3000

Watercolour Boat house at rivers edge Signed lower left 10 1/2" x 7 1/4" (27cm x 18.5cm)