Artwork

Lake Nemi

Lake Nemi, by John Robert Cozens, watercolor, 1786
Lake Nemi, by John Robert Cozens, watercolor, 1786

Lake Nemi is a watercolor work on paper by the Neoclassicist artist John Robert Cozens. It dates from 1786 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Lake Nemi is a watercolour painting depicting a serene lakeside scene.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Lake Nemi in Italy, with the town of Nemi visible in the upper left corner. Trees line the water's edge, and buildings are seen in the distance under a cloudy sky with sunlight breaking through.

Technique & Style

Soft brushstrokes and muted colours evoke a sense of calmness. Gentle, sweeping lines are used to depict trees and buildings, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere.

Context

The style of the painting is associated with the Romanticism movement, which often featured landscapes that evoked emotion and a sense of natural beauty.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Robert Cozens

Artist

John Robert Cozens

John Robert Cozens (1752 – 14 December 1797) was an English painter of romantic watercolour landscapes, nearly all of Continental scenes.