George Cuit was born in 1743 at Moulton a few miles away from Richmond. He attended Richmond's Grammar school and was soon recognised for his early interest in and talent for drawing. His talent attracted the interest of Sir Lawrence Dundas and in 1769 he was sent to study art in Rome. On his return his attempt to establish himself as an artist in London was foiled by ill health and he returned to Richmond. In improved health he enjoyed a career as an artist for more than 40 years.

With Robert Coatsworth he painted the scenery for the two plays performed at the opening of Richmond's Theatre Royal in 1788. Cuit's son born in 1779 became an artist in his own right. He lived in nearby Masham and to distinguish himself from his father signed his works Cuitt (an extra "t").

George Cuit lived until the age of 75. His wife Jane died early in 1818. Cuit at the age of 75 was heartbroken but continued with what was to be his last work, a commission for a Mr George Hall of London. It was never finished for he died at his easel with brush in hand at his home in Frenchgate just a few weeks after his wife.

The following scene depicts Easby Abbey from the South: