This stunning painting by the renowned British artist Thomas Gainsborough RA FRSA (14 May 1727 (baptised)–2 August 1788) depicts a rural scene of a peaceful country churchyard. The painting's title alludes to a peasant examining a tombstone in the foreground, while a seated-shepherdess sits in the backdrop of the landscape beyond. The dimensions of the painting are 15 1/2 in. by 19 3/4in, and the subject was engraved on pewter by the artist himself. This painting is of significant importance in Gainsborough’s oeuvre, as it demonstrates his exceptional skill and mastery of the English pastoral landscape, a style for which he was renowned. This painting was part of the Collection of Sir Arthur Ducros and is a highly sought-after work of art, both for its beauty and its historical and cultural significance.

15 and 1/2 inch x 19 and 3/4inch