The pencil study on which this composition is based is in the 'Tabley' sketchbook No.1, T.B.CIII f.10. This book was in use during a visit to Tabley in the summer of 1808 (see Finberg 1961, p.151). The early history of this drawing is not clear, and it may have been executed a little later than the date suggested, perhaps in connection with Whitaker's Richmondshire (see No. 180) or a similar project.