The sketchbook is named after the painting shown at the British Institution in 1805 (55): ‘The Goddess of Discord choosing the apple of contention in the Garden of the Hesperides' (Tate Gallery, 477), for which some of the sketches appear to be studies; in particular a pen drawing on f.3v is for the dragon in that picture, and is inscribed ‘the Garden of the Hesperides'. There are also drawings for other subjects, and a series of studies on the Thames similar to those in the ‘Isleworth' sketchbook (No.94).

The page shown is one of a series of rustic figure subjects on ff.22-5 which seem to reflect the success of Wilkie's 'Village Politicians' shown at the R.A. in 1806 (145). Similar designs occur in the 'Harvest Home' sketchbook (T.B.LXXX VI, ff.2,3,4). See also No. 133. Inscribed on the first front fly-leaf is: 'Varnish|Razor|Blue Black|Bt Sienna|Fishing Rod. Flies| Pallet|Knife|Shoes'.