Artwork

Lustre teapot and bowl

Lustre teapot and bowl, by R Alston, watercolor, 1925
Lustre teapot and bowl, by R Alston, watercolor, 1925

Lustre teapot and bowl is a watercolor work on paper by the Arts and Crafts movement artist R Alston. It dates from 1925 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1925 watercolour painting depicts a lustre teapot and bowl, rendered in soft, muted tones. The artist's monogram 'RWA' is visible on the work.

Subject & Meaning

The still life features a teapot with a curved handle and lid, alongside a wide bowl, both adorned with simple floral motifs. Scattered blue flowers add a pop of colour to the scene, while the teapot's design includes a whimsical painted house and trees.

Technique & Style

Loose, watery brushstrokes characterise the painting, imbuing the colours with a soft, slightly faded quality. The artist's approach captures the shapes and patterns of the ceramic objects with a sense of ease and informality.

Artist & collection

Artist

R Alston

R Alston painted quiet English scenes and everyday objects with watercolour in the mid-20th century.