What is the estimated value of this Charles John de Lacy painting?

This Charles John de Lacy oil painting, 'Coal Barges in Greenwich Reach, London', dated 1887, has an estimated market value of £1,200 - £1,800. This valuation is based on its recent auction history, including sales at Eastbourne Auctions in 2021 and Bonhams in 2025. The estimate reflects a likely result at a good regional auction, considering the work is not fresh to the market.

What era or period is this Charles John de Lacy painting from?

This painting by Charles John de Lacy is from the Late 19th Century, specifically dated 1887. This period was significant for British marine art, capturing the transition from sail to steam power on the River Thames. De Lacy was known for his atmospheric and detailed depictions of London's maritime activity during this era.

What condition is this Charles John de Lacy painting in?

The painting is in good, stable condition for its age. It exhibits a fine, stable network of age-related craquelure across the surface, which is typical for a 19th-century oil painting and does not detract from its value. No major damage, tears, paint loss, or significant restoration is visible from the photographs.

Where should I sell this Charles John de Lacy painting?

We strongly recommend selling this Charles John de Lacy painting within the United Kingdom, ideally through a London-based specialist auction house like Bonhams, Lyon & Turnbull, or Roseberys. These venues attract dedicated collectors of British marine art and London topography, maximizing the potential net proceeds and avoiding international shipping complexities.

Is this Charles John de Lacy painting authentic?

The painting is considered likely authentic. It is signed and dated 'Charles J de Lacy 1887' and its style is entirely consistent with the artist's known works. Its attribution is further supported by its appearance in multiple auction catalogues under his name. However, a definitive authentication would require a physical examination under UV light to rule out later additions or forgeries.

What makes this Charles John de Lacy painting valuable?

The value of this painting stems from several factors: its secure attribution to Charles John de Lacy, its large scale and excellent execution, and its depiction of a historically significant and iconic London scene—Greenwich Reach with the Royal Hospital. The artist's atmospheric rendering of light and detailed maritime activity also contributes to its desirability among collectors of British marine art.

Charles John de Lacy (British, 1856–1929), 'Coal Barges in Greenwich Reach, London, with the Royal Hospital in the Distance', 1887

Estimated value: £1,200 - £1,800. Charles John de Lacy (British, 1856–1929), 'Coal Barges in Greenwich Reach, London, with the Royal Hospital in the Distance', 1887 (Late 19th Century) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Fine Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This oil on canvas is a significant work by the noted British marine painter Charles John de Lacy, dated 1887. De Lacy was renowned for his atmospheric and detailed depictions of the River Thames, and this painting, 'Coal Barges in Greenwich Reach, London, with the Royal Hospital in the Distance', is a prime example of his talent. It captures a pivotal moment in British history, showing the industrialised river where traditional sailing vessels worked alongside modern steam-powered tugs and barges. The iconic backdrop of the Royal Hospital at Greenwich, bathed in the warm light of a hazy sunset, adds to its historical and topographical interest. The market for de Lacy's work is well-established, with his large Thames views being particularly sought after by collectors of British marine art. This specific painting has a documented history at auction, having been sold at a regional sale in 2021 and more recently at a major international auction house in 2025. This history confirms its appeal and provides a clear indication of its current market level, while also highlighting the potential impact of venue and timing on value.

How the value was reached

The valuation is based on the painting's recent and verifiable auction history. It appears to be the same work that sold for £820 at Eastbourne Auctions in 2021 and for £2,816 at Bonhams in 2025. The current estimate reflects a likely result at a good regional auction, taking into account that the work is not fresh to the market, which can temper bidding. We would recommend a reserve price of £1,000. At this level, net proceeds to the seller would be approximately £960 - £1,530 after a typical seller's commission of 10-15%.

Comparable sales

A view of the Thames near Greenwich signed 'C.J. De Lacy' (lower left) oil on canvas 56.2 x 91.7cm (22 1/8 x 36 1/8in). — sold for £2,816 (Bonhams), 2025-04-30
Charles John De Lacy - Ships and paddle steamers, late 19th century oil on canvas, mounted and framed, 55cm x 43cm excluding the mount and frame. — sold for £820 (Eastbourne Auctions), 2021-09-08
A pair of oil on panel paintings by Hubert Anslow Thornley (British), 19th Century, titled 'On the Thames' and 'On the Medway'. Both are signed 'H. Thornley' (lower left) and inscribed with titles on a label on the reverse. Each painting measures 30.5 x 25.4cm (12 x 10in). — sold for £4,375 (Bonhams), 2011-09-13
CHARLES JOHN DE LACY, 1856-1936, oil on canvas, signed, dated -79. — sold for £378.13 (Auktionshuset Kolonn), 2023-04-24
CHARLES JOHN DE LACY, The Pool, London, watercolour, signed and dated 1906. — sold for £231.51 (Göteborgs Auktionsverk), 2019-10-28

Expert notes

The valuation is highly dependent on the painting's recent sales history. It appears to be the same work sold at Bonhams in April 2025 for £2,816. Re-offering a work so soon after purchase can suppress the price. Before any sale, we strongly recommend checking the reverse of the canvas for auction labels from Bonhams (2025) or Cheffins (2019) to confirm its provenance. A UV light examination is also advised to confirm the signature is original and to check for any hidden restoration.