Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had been on friendly terms with Lady Callcott, the wife of the artist. When she died in 1843 Callcott was appointed Surveyor of Pictures by the Queen. A contemporary observed 'the tact & Kindness the Queen had shown in offering poor old Sir Augustus Callcott the office of Inspector of Royal Pictures'. Callcott himself died in 1844, however, and the Queen and Prince Albert acquired this painting from his executors in 1845.

Inscribed on the back: No7 AW Callcott.