Artwork
Falls in the Nant Col, Llanbedr, near Harlech
Falls in the Nant Col, Llanbedr, near Harlech is an oil painting by Charles Ernest Butler. It dates from 1903 and is held in the collection of the National Library of Wales.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1903, this oil painting by Charles Ernest Butler portrays a tranquil waterfall in the Nant Col area near Llanbedr, close to Harlech. The composition centers on the cascade of water moving from the left, framed by a stone wall on the right and a backdrop of trees that suggest the surrounding Welsh landscape.
Subject & Meaning
The work captures a moment of natural serenity, emphasizing the gentle motion of water against a modest rural setting. The stone wall, a common feature in the region, anchors the scene, while the foliage hints at the quiet, unspoiled character of the Welsh countryside.
Technique & Style
Butler employed oil pigments to render the interplay of light on the flowing water and the surrounding foliage, allowing subtle reflections to emerge. Visible brushwork adds texture to the surface, and the contrast between illuminated water and darker shadows creates a modest chiaroscuro effect that gives the scene a sense of depth.
History & Provenance
Since its completion, the painting has been part of the collection of the National Library of Wales, where it remains accessible for study and public viewing. Its inclusion in the library’s holdings reflects the institution’s commitment to preserving visual records of Wales’s natural scenery.
Artist & collection
