Panoramic Views of Shrewsbury

Acquisition of two 18th century panoramic views of Shrewsbury. Each measuring more than three by four yards, the dramatic canvases are 'framed' by wide arches and swagged curtains through which, like theatrical scene paintings, the Town and encircling River Severn, are seen as if from a high castle keep. The paintings were believed to have been created for the nearby Hardwick Hall, where they were recorded as hanging in 1918. They have been attributed to the artist John Bowen (active 1740s).