Walter Scott had originally commissioned Turner and several other artists to provide illustrations for the 'Provincial Antiquities of Scotland' in 1818. Although the project was foundering a little by 1822, Turner re-visited Scotland that year, possibly influenced by the decision of George IV to go to Edinburgh. The sketches he made provided the basis for his final for the publication, including that of 'Bass Rock', as well as for two vignette designs which formed the frontispieces to the two volumes of the finished book.
Gallery label, August 2004
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