Artwork
SPRING
SPRING is a print by the Impressionist artist John Constable. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
John Constable’s 1855 print *Spring* belongs to a famous series of mezzotints.
John Constable’s 1855 print *Spring* belongs to a famous series of mezzotints. He supervised the project near the end of his life. The prints were made from his own paintings and sketches.
This series is one of the most important mezzotint editions ever published. It shows English landscapes in six parts. Later editions kept the work alive after Constable died.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
Spring is a mezzotint print from John Constable's seminal series, English Landscape, published in six parts between 1830 and 1832. This work represents a culmination of Constable's life's work, translating his oil sketches and paintings into mezzotint.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a seasonal English landscape, Spring embodies Constable's emphasis on nature's dynamic interplay of light and shadow, guided by the artistic principle of chiaroscuro. The subject holds personal and historical significance, aiming to foster appreciation for England's scenery.
Technique & Style
Executed by David Lucas under Constable's supervision, Spring showcases the expressive potential of mezzotint. Influenced by Claude Lorrain and J.M.W. Turner, the print blends traditional landscape themes with innovative chiaroscuro effects, characteristic of Constable's late style.
History & Provenance
Originally published between 1830-1832, Spring was part of the first edition of English Landscape. A revised edition followed in 1833. After Constable's death in 1837, the series underwent reprints, with some plates completed and published posthumously by Lucas.
Context
Created during Constable's later years, English Landscape, including Spring, was a deliberate effort to explain and justify his artistic vision to a still somewhat perplexed audience, solidifying his contribution to English landscape painting.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Constable (; 11 June 1776 – 31 March 1837) was an English landscape painter in the Romantic tradition.
