Description:
Black and white print of the view of Ross-on-Wye, looking from a bend in the River Wye
It shows various activities taking place along the river bank. There is a ferry boat on the opposite side of the river in which a rower and two passengers are sat, a fisherman holding his rod and line, and a couple of groups of men and women in conversation. On an eminence overlooking the river is a white building. This is the Royal Hotel. Two teams of carriages and horses can be seen descending a road from the hotel.
Details on the print read:
Published by W. Paine, Post Office, Ross
Engraved by R. Joy, All Saints Street, Bristol
It is undated.
William Paine was the Post Master at Ross from 1836 to early January 1849
Robert Joy, was a British general engraver and printmaker active in Bristol between 1830 and 1863 (Information from the Fitzwilliam Museum of the University of Cambridge)
The Royal Hotel was opened in 1838.
This print can therefore be dated with certainty as being produced sometime between 1838 (date the Royal Hotel was opened) and 1848 (shortly before Mr Paine resigned from his position as Postmaster).
The ladies' are wearing wide-brimmed bonnets which were intended to protect their faces from the sun. This fashion was popular during the 1830s and therefore may date this print closer to the late 1830s, early 1840s.
Entry in Pigot's Directory for 1840:
Paine Wm., HIgh Street, Postmaster
Also
Paine, Wm., High Street, China & Glass Warehouse, Perfumery, & Fancy Respository.
