January 29, 1998
(Executive Council)

Sotheby's to present early North American drawing to Government House

On Monday, February 2, 1998 George Gordon, Senior Director, Old Master Paintings Department of Sotheby's in London, England will present a drawing to Government House at a ceremony, for invited guests, at 4 p.m.

The drawing by a Dutch whale fisherman over two hundred years ago bears an inscription, Caplin or Caplin's Bay. The exact location of this site has not been determined but is believed to be on the Avalon Peninsula. It is possible that this drawing pre-dates the first recorded painted views of New Amsterdam (New York) and if so, the drawing would be the earliest known visual art work in North America.

The Lieutenant-Governor will accept this generous donation on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Members of the media wishing to cover this presentation at 4 p.m. on Monday, February 2 are asked to arrive at Government House by 3:45 p.m.

Contact: D. Wayne Mitchell, Private Secretary Government House, (709) 729-4494