Sidney Lawrenson Etching Ye Olde Cat & Wheel Bristol Framed Pub Scene c.1920s

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.