Lot 129

Unknown author HOUSE AT THE MINUTE

This successful watercolor sketch depicts a view of a valuable listed building in a very busy part of Old Town Square. The House at the Minute got its modern name from the minute-long sale of tobacco; it was formerly called The White Lion and housed a pharmacy. It was saved from demolition by an expert commission, and shortly thereafter, in 1919, rich Renaissance sgraffito decorations were discovered. The painting shows the view before the arcade was broken through in 1938.