![Laurence Stephen Lowry - Steps at Wick [1937] by Gandalf's Gallery](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7324/13122245105_64f4400580.jpg)
The town of Wick is in Caithness in the far north of Scotland and the steps in the painting were part of Thomas Telford's 1809 scheme for the new town plan for the British Fisheries Society. Lowry's work is commemorated on an engraved plaque at the site.
Lowry, one of the best loved British painters of the 20th Century, had an isolated upbringing in northern England. He spent many solitary early years in the leafy Manchester suburb of Victoria Park, Rusholm, later moving to the town of Pendlebury which was the inspiration for his industrial scenes. He is particularly recognised for his trademark 'matchstick men' represented in desolate industrial and urban landscapes. An anti-establishment figure, Lowry holds the record for rejecting the most state honours, including a knighthood.
[Bonhams, London - Oil on canvas, 17 x 21 cm]