By the time Joseph Wright of Derby departed for Italy in order to under-take a Grand Tour in 1773, he had already completed the paintings which had made his name in London and for which he is still best known. These included the scenes of scientific experimentation A philosopher lecturing on the orrery (1766; Derby Museum and Art Gallery) and Experiment on a bird in the air pump (1768; National Gallery, London). On his way to Italy Wright stopped at Nice, and during this time he made a number of drawings of buildings in and around the town, including this sensitive watercolour study.