Condition: Used
Type: Print
Year of Production: 1920
Production Technique: Etching
Framing: Framed
Subject: Cats
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Title:
Sidney Lawrenson Etching Ye Olde Cat & Wheel Bristol Framed Pub Scene c.1920s
Description:
This item is a vintage etching by Sidney Lawrenson, depicting the historic Ye Olde Cat & Wheel pub in Bristol, England. Beautifully rendered in fine linework, the etching captures the distinctive timberframed gables, bay windows, and the inn’s signage advertising “Wines,” “Spirits,” and “Cat & Wheel.” It’s signed in pencil lower right and titled in pencil lower left:
“Ye Olde Cat & Wheel Bristol”
This charming and architecturally rich composition showcases Lawrenson’s skill in capturing the character of old English street scenes.
Product Details:
• Artist: Sidney Lawrenson (signed in pencil)
• Title: Ye Olde Cat & Wheel, Bristol
• Medium: Original etching on paper
• Framed Size (approx.): 30.5 cm x 25 cm (12 in x 10 in)
• Visible Plate Size (approx.): 14.5 cm x 10.5 cm (5.7 in x 4.1 in)
• Frame: Original wooden frame with dark brown grain and simple edge profile
• Back Label: Partial label from F.R. Hock, Pictures and Picture Framing, London
Design Highlights:
• Detailed depiction of a Tudorstyle corner pub
• Includes pedestrians, textured stonework, and deep window shadows
• Charming pub signage: a circular sign featuring a black cat inside a wheel
• Street sign reads “Cat L. Street,” referencing Catherine Wheel Alley
• Strong architectural depth with angled view and layered rooflines
Condition:
Acceptable vintage condition.
• Etching: Artwork is well preserved with minor age toning; the etching itself shows no tears or foxing.
• Mount/Mat: Original mat shows notable staining, including dark spots, discoloration, and two large water stains (bottom right and left edges).
• Frame: Wooden frame has surface wear, scratches, and small nicks but is structurally sound.
• Back: Paper backing is heavily worn, torn, and cracked, consistent with age. Original framer’s label is partially intact.
About the Artist & Location:
Sidney Lawrenson was a British artist known for finely detailed architectural and landscape etchings, active in the earlytomid 20th century.
The Cat & Wheel is a wellknown historical public house in Bristol, with records of pubs under that name dating back centuries. The name derives from the Catherine Wheel, a torture device turned saintly symbol associated with Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The building’s halftimbered style and protruding bay windows are typical of old English pub architecture and remain a celebrated piece of Bristol’s heritage.
Why Choose This Piece?
• Authentic signed etching by a British artist
• Features a beloved historic pub – perfect for collectors of pub art or Bristol scenes
• Evokes classic English street life and architecture
• Ideal for vintage, pubthemed, or traditional home settings
This piece is sold as found in its original frame and mount. Restoration of matting or reframing would further enhance its presentation.
