William Leader (1767–1828) was a prosperous London businessman with interests in a malt distillery and a dealer in glass and ceramics who latterly became a Member of Parliament. He is the first known owner of several important Girtin watercolours, including the monumental view of Bridgnorth (TG1755), though it is not known whether they were commissioned from the artist. His son, John Temple Leader (1810–1903), sold twelve works by Girtin, which may have been acquired by inheritance (Exhibitions: Christie’s, 18 March 1843).

1802

Bridgnorth

TG1755