Who painted Water meadows near Salisbury?

Water meadows near Salisbury was painted by John Constable in 1829.

Where can I see Water meadows near Salisbury?

Water meadows near Salisbury is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Water meadows near Salisbury?

Water meadows near Salisbury is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Water meadows near Salisbury?

Museum-quality prints of Water meadows near Salisbury are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Water meadows near Salisbury

John Constable , 1829

Water meadows near Salisbury is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John Constable. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This pen and brown ink drawing by John Constable portrays a serene water meadow landscape near Salisbury, functioning as a preliminary outline for a subsequent oil painting. It is currently housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures a peaceful rural scene featuring a river, tall trees with sparse foliage, distant buildings, and a soft, cloudy sky. The composition conveys a sense of calm and natural serenity.

Technique & Style

Executed with quick, loose lines, the sketch emphasizes light and movement, characteristic of a rapid study. The artist's use of hatching is evident, though the overall feel remains that of an unfinished preparatory work.

History & Provenance

Sold at Christie’s in 1992 as part of lot 116, alongside another related drawing (E.373-1992), the work is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection, accessioned as FA 38.

Context

Typical of Constable’s landscape studies, this drawing demonstrates his approach to capturing the English countryside, often using sketches as precursors to more finished oil paintings.

Legacy

While primarily a study, the drawing contributes to the understanding of Constable’s working process and his emphasis on light and natural beauty in landscape art.