A Royal Receipt Unveils a Literary Secret

Introduction to a Lost Masterpiece

Two hundred and two years ago, the art world was introduced to a prodigious talent at the Royal Academy's summer exhibition in 1793. The artist? Joseph Mallord William Turner, a name that would soon become synonymous with revolutionary landscape painting. His debut oil painting, The Rising Squall, Hot Wells, from St Vincent’s Rock, Bristol, captured a turbulent seascape, a bustling hot spring, and a dramatic evening sky—all crafted by the then 17-year-old Turner. This work marked his first foray into public display, earning immediate recognition and cementing its place in his early oeuvre. Mentioned in his earliest biographies and later his obituaries, it stood as a testament to his budding genius, blending raw talent with an ambitious vision that hinted at the masterpieces to come.

The Journey into Obscurity

Despite its initial acclaim, The Rising Squall gradually slipped into obscurity, a fate that befell many works of its time. Art historians and scholars overlooked it, mistakenly classifying it as a watercolor rather than recognizing it as Turner’s inaugural oil painting. This misattribution paved the way for Fisherman at Sea (1796) to be erroneously celebrated as his first oil work, overshadowing the true pioneer piece. By the mid-19th century, the painting had vanished from public view, spending 150 years tucked away in private collections, its significance lost to time. This period of neglect might have continued indefinitely were it not for a serendipitous event: an auction at Dreweatts in April 2024. Listed under the generic title House by the Water Under a Stormy Sky and attributed to a "follower of Julius Caesar Ibbetson," the painting failed to meet its modest £600–£800 estimate. However, a discerning buyer stepped in, commissioning a restoration that uncovered Turner’s signature beneath layers of grime—a discovery that would rewrite art history.

Unraveling the Provenance

Fifteen months later, as of July 2025, the full story of The Rising Squall has begun to emerge, thanks to meticulous research and analysis. The painting is believed to have been commissioned by Reverend Robert Nixon, a close friend and early patron of Turner. Nixon, who was also a customer at Turner’s father’s barbershop, provided the young artist with lodging and encouragement to explore oil painting—a medium that would define his career. Sotheby’s notes reveal that the work is directly linked to an on-the-spot drawing in Turner’s earliest sketchbook and a corresponding watercolor, both preserved at Tate Britain. This connection provides concrete evidence of its authenticity. Furthermore, early biographies corroborate that Turner’s first oil painting was created in Nixon’s home, aligning perfectly with the timeline and context of The Rising Squall.

Julian Gascoigne of Sotheby’s expressed unwavering confidence in the attribution, stating to The Guardian, “We are as certain as it’s possible to be that this painting is by Turner.” This certainty is reinforced by the unanimous endorsement of all leading Turner scholars alive today, who have examined the work in detail. The painting’s reattribution is not merely a footnote but a significant revision of Turner’s artistic narrative, shedding light on his precocious talent and the influences that shaped his early style.

Significance of the Rediscovery

The rediscovery of The Rising Squall offers a profound insight into Turner’s formative years, revealing a level of skill and ambition that surpasses previous assumptions about his early career. Sotheby’s analysis notes, “It was mistaken in the literature for a watercolor—absent from the catalogue of exhibited oil paintings by the artist, and the discourse of his work.” This error had long obscured the painting’s true importance. Its reemergence now allows art lovers, historians, and scholars to appreciate the “startling ambition” of Turner at such a tender age. The work demonstrates a mastery of light, color, and composition that foreshadows the innovative techniques he would later perfect in masterpieces like The Fighting Temeraire and Rain, Steam and Speed.

This lost Turner painting serves as a bridge between his youthful experiments and his mature artistry, highlighting his extraordinary confidence in handling oil paints—a medium known for its complexity. The discovery challenges earlier narratives, prompting a reevaluation of how we understand Turner’s development as an artist and his contribution to the Romantic movement. It also underscores the importance of preserving and revisiting historical artworks, as even forgotten pieces can hold immense value.

Upcoming Exhibition and Auction

As the art world buzzes with excitement, The Rising Squall will be showcased at Sotheby’s from 28 June to 1 July 2025, just before the Old Masters & 19th Century Paintings Evening Auction on 2 July. The painting carries an estimate of £200,000–£300,000, a staggering 500-fold increase from its sale price at the Dreweatts auction. This dramatic valuation reflects its newfound status as a JMW Turner masterpiece and its historical significance. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity for collectors, enthusiasts, and scholars to witness this rediscovered gem in person, making it a highlight of the art event 2025 calendar.

The auction itself is poised to be a major event, with bidders likely to compete fiercely for ownership of this piece of art history. The proceeds could also fund further research into Turner’s early works, potentially uncovering additional lost treasures. For those unable to attend, Sotheby’s will provide live streaming, ensuring global access to this momentous occasion.

Why This Matters for Art Lovers

The story of The Rising Squall is more than a tale of rediscovery; it’s a celebration of the resilience of art and the dedication of those who seek to preserve it. This lost art treasure reminds us that masterpieces can resurface from the shadows, offering new perspectives on the artists we thought we knew. For Turner aficionados, it’s a chance to delve deeper into his evolution, from a precocious teenager to a titan of the art world. The painting’s journey—from obscurity to a multimillion-pound estimate—highlights the unpredictable nature of art valuation and the enduring appeal of Turner paintings.

Moreover, this rediscovery invites broader discussions about the role of patronage in art history. Reverend Nixon’s support was pivotal, suggesting that behind every great artist lies a network of encouragers. It also raises questions about how many other lost works might still be hidden in private collections, waiting for their moment in the spotlight.

Conclusion

The rediscovery of The Rising Squall, Hot Wells, from St Vincent’s Rock, Bristol is a landmark moment in art history. As Turner’s first oil painting, it offers a window into the mind of a young artist who would redefine landscape painting. Its journey—from a forgotten canvas to a £300,000 estimate—captures the magic of uncovering lost art treasures. Mark your calendars for the Sotheby’s exhibition and auction, and join the global community in celebrating this unmissable art event 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this JMW Turner masterpiece promises to inspire and captivate for generations to come.