Cromek first visited Italy in 1830, carrying a letter of introduction from Robert Henry Cheney to his brother in Rome. The Cheneys were responsible for introducing Cromek to many important figures and patrons in Italy, where he lived until 1849. A striking view of Florence by Cromek was sold in these Rooms on 19 November, 1985, for 5,500. Another version of the present drawing was lot 21, Christie sale 30 June 1981