Sir Hugh Casson (United Kingdom, 1910 - 1999) "Windsor Castle, London" Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the Westminster Collector's Society Great Britian block of four stamps issued May 7, 1980. Windsor Castle -- located about twenty miles west of London on the River Thames -- is perhaps England's most famous castle, due primarily to the fact that it is the British royal family's chief residence, as well as a stopping point for many heads of state on official visits to Britain. Originally built around 1070 by William the Conqueror, the castle was a Norman motte and bailey with a timber stockade atop a dirt mound. The Round Tower and stone walls were added by Henry II a century later. The artwork depicts the Round Tower, viewed from across the River Thames. Since Henry II's additions, successive monarchs have remodeled and added to the castle. The decorations which adorn much of the interior are the result of George IV's massive redecorations in the 1820's. The Grand Reception Room and Waterloo Chamber are among the most lavish and magnificent rooms in the castle. Used for State receptions and other formal affairs, they -- like others of the State Apartments -- are open for public viewing during most of the year. In 1475, Edward IV began the construction of St. George's Chapel, one of the most magnificent of English churches. In this chapel are buried many monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, and George VI. Today, Windsor Castle stands as an impressive and monumental reminder of the royal family's influence on British life throughout the centuries. In addition, it has remained a favorite residence among various monarchs, including Queen Victoria and the present Queen Elizabeth II. Image Size: 12.5 x 14.5 in. Overall Size: 14 x 16 in. Unframed. (B06023)