Artwork

Village of Bowness, Cumberland

Village of Bowness, Cumberland, by James Burrell Smith, watercolor, 1858
Village of Bowness, Cumberland, by James Burrell Smith, watercolor, 1858

Village of Bowness, Cumberland is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist James Burrell Smith. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

James Burrell Smith's 1858 watercolour, 'Village of Bowness, Cumberland', captures a serene village scene, signed by the artist.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a house with a staircase, surrounded by meticulously detailed trees and bushes, evoking a peaceful atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Smith employed watercolour to achieve a soft, realistic effect, characteristic of his detailed and realistic rendering of natural elements.

History & Provenance

Created in 1858, the work is attributed to James Burrell Smith through his signature; further provenance details are not provided.

Context

The piece reflects mid-19th-century watercolour traditions, often used to depict idyllic rural scenes in Britain during this period.

Legacy

While not widely renowned beyond its subject matter, the painting offers insight into Smith's style and the era's penchant for serene, detailed watercolours.

Artist & collection

Portrait of James Burrell Smith

Artist

James Burrell Smith

James Burrell Smith was a watercolour and landscape artist. He was born in London. In 1843 he moved to Alnwick, Northumberland where he trained with Thomas Miles Richardson. He travelled around the UK and Europe. During…