Bough began his career in Glasgow before working as a landscape painter in Edinburgh and Manchester. In 1856, he became an Associate of the Royal Scottish Academy and was awarded with full membership in 1875. Recognised as one of the leading artists of the 19th Century Scottish School, he worked in both oil and watercolour (see lot 92). His works can be found in museums in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen and others, thought to also include this particular painting, were also exhibited during his lifetime at the Royal Academy, London and the Royal Scottish Academy: he is also represented at the Victoria and Albert Museum and at Tate Britain, London.