Artwork
Butter Cross, Whitney
Butter Cross, Whitney is a watercolor work on paper by Stanley Anderson. It dates from 1941 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour painting depicts a lively market scene in Whitney, with a prominent wooden shelter at its centre.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour painting depicts a lively market scene in Whitney, with a prominent wooden shelter at its centre. The work is a representation of daily life in a small town, captured using soft, muted colours.
Subject & Meaning
The painting focuses on the Butter Cross, a historic structure with a timber roof supported by stone columns, and the surrounding community activity. It reflects the everyday life and traditions of the town, documenting a moment in time.
Technique & Style
The artist employed watercolour to achieve a gentle, nuanced portrayal of the scene, using shading and colour to convey the atmosphere of the market square. The style is characterised by muted tones and attention to detail.
History & Provenance
The painting was created as part of the Recording Britain project, a commission aimed at documenting places and traditions perceived as vulnerable during the Second World War.
Context
The work reflects broader concerns about the impact of change on rural landscapes and communities during a period of significant upheaval.
Artist & collection
Artist
Stanley Anderson was an American character actor who played Drew Carey's father on The Drew Carey Show.
