Lot 6: George Edwards Peacock (Australian, 1806-c.1890)

both signed, both inscribed and both dated 1848 verso, oil on board

15.9 x 21 cm. (6 1/8 x 8 1/4 in.), (2).

Peacock's early life was as a London solicitor, but in 1836, due to the pressure of debts he forged a power of attorney. He was convicted of forgery and was sentenced to transportation for life, he arrived in Sydney in 1837.

He was initially employed as an assistant to the astronomer at South Head, Sydney and following his conditional pardon in 1846 he remained there as meteorologist until 1856 when the station was closed.

He began painting in the early 1840's and his subjects were largely limited to views of the harbour, its bays and the surrounding landmarks.