Artwork
Study of a hillside path with ferns
Study of a hillside path with ferns is a watercolor work on paper by Beatrix Potter. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour depicts a winding hillside path surrounded by ferns.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour depicts a winding hillside path surrounded by ferns. Created early in the 1900s, it is a characteristic example of Beatrix Potter's naturalistic style.
Subject & Meaning
The scene is likely set in the Lake District, a region Potter frequently visited with her family from 1885 and later made her home.
History & Provenance
Potter's connection to the Lake District deepened in 1905 when she purchased Hill Top, and she settled there permanently after marrying William Heelis in 1913.
Context
The study may have been made with the illustrations for 'The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-winkle' in mind, as the book's setting in the Newlands valley features similar fern-filled hills.
Artist & collection
Artist
Helen Beatrix Heelis (née Potter; 28 July 1866 – 22 December 1943), usually known as Beatrix Potter ( BEE-ə-triks), was an English writer, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist.
