The painting as inscribed by the artist depicts a “Lonely valley of Zebbey (sic)” and dated “1.30pm March 28th, 1866”.

Having wintered in Italy, Lear journeyed to Malta for his health from December 1865 to April 1866, having visited the island previously in 1862. Sir Henry Storks, who had been High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands was now Commander – In – Chief in Malta. Lear arrived but found that Storks had just departed, Lear remained in Malta for three months.

Lear executed another view of Zebbug at 3.00pm on 28th March 1866.

FRONT COVER Lonely Valley of Zebbug, Malta (1866)