Mid 1900-1999, Ghent, Belgium Chateau des Comtes from Hoofdbrug

Belgium. East Flanders – Ghent by Leonard Machin Rowe (1880-1968) signed in both front lower corners, inscribed and dated to the back watercolour painting on artist’s paper, unframed Image 9.75 x 13.75 inches, sheet 11.25 x 15 inches Super painting by Leon. Rowe, inscribed with the date of May ’50 on the back. This depicts the Leie river (and natural moat) below the Chateau des Comtes (Gravensteen) in Ghent, as painted from the Hoofdbrug – the “execution” or “decapitation” bridge. The bridge was the setting for public executions between the 14th and 16th centuries. The walls of the Gravensteen can be seen on the right of the image, the Castle of the Counts, which has a similar grisly history. Belgium and Luxembourg were two of Rowe’s favourite destinations for his painting trips overseas. Often incorporating figures into his work, his style is very similar to Thomas Morley’s paintings of French and Belgian market town scenes. Signed front lower right and lower left. Signed, dated and initialled on the back. This work forms part of a watercolour collection we currently hold by Rowe. Known as Leon Rowe, the artist was born in Staffordshire, England, in Christmas week of 1880. His career and business involved in him interior decoration, and the design and painting of theatre production stage scenery. He had a love of painting in watercolour for his own pleasure and the collection of work we currently hold by this artist shows exemplary skill. In his later years he was able to travel to Europe where much of his post war work was executed, although examples of his paintings are recorded as early as 1914, when he would have been around 25 years old. His earlier work shows his signature as Leon Rowe but the majority he signed as L M Rowe – as is the case here. He passed away in 1968. condition report: No tears or creases. There is a white border margin around the work, and within that border margin are numerous marks and edge discolouration. The image is clean and clear with good strong colour.