Artwork

Nottingham

Nottingham, by Peter De Wint, watercolor, 1848
Nottingham, by Peter De Wint, watercolor, 1848

Nottingham is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Peter De Wint. It dates from 1848 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

In the foreground, there are several cows standing in the water, adding a sense of life and movement to the otherwise still scene.

The painting "Nottingham" by Peter De Wint, created in 1848, is a watercolour landscape. It depicts a serene scene with a body of water in the foreground, possibly a river, and a town or cityscape in the background. The sky above is filled with clouds, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the scene.

In the foreground, there are several cows standing in the water, adding a sense of life and movement to the otherwise still scene. The overall effect is one of peacefulness and calm, inviting the viewer to step into the serene world of the painting.

For more on this style, explore the Romanticism movement.

Overview

Nottingham is a watercolour landscape painted by Peter De Wint in 1848, capturing a serene pastoral scene with a distant urban backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The painting contrasts a tranquil foreground, featuring cows in a body of water, with the visible silhouette of Nottingham in the distance, juxtaposing natural serenity with urban presence.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolour, the work showcases De Wint's ability to evoke calm through soft, cloudy skies and the gentle depiction of animals, aligning with Romanticism's emphasis on nature's tranquility.

History & Provenance

Acquired directly by Richard Ellison, a key patron of De Wint, from his estate Sudbrooke Holme in Lincolnshire, this piece is notable for being one of the highest-priced works sold by the artist during his lifetime.

Context

Created during the height of the Romantic movement, 'Nottingham' reflects the era's focus on emotive, natural landscapes, often contrasting with the burgeoning industrial landscape of 19th-century Britain.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of 'Nottingham' on the art world are not detailed, it remains a characteristic example of De Wint's contribution to British Romantic watercolour painting.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Peter De Wint

Artist

Peter De Wint

Peter De Wint (1784–1849) was an artist.