Artwork

A Windy Day - scene outside the shop of Bowles, the printseller, in St. Paul's Churchyard

A Windy Day - scene outside the shop of Bowles, the printseller, in St. Paul's Churchyard, by Robert Dighton, watercolor, 1751
A Windy Day - scene outside the shop of Bowles, the printseller, in St. Paul's Churchyard, by Robert Dighton, watercolor, 1751

A Windy Day - scene outside the shop of Bowles, the printseller, in St. Paul's Churchyard is a watercolor work on paper by the Rococo painting artist Robert Dighton. It dates from 1751 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour by Robert Dighton depicts a lively scene outside a print shop in St. Paul's Churchyard, with a strong wind affecting the figures.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows a group of people struggling against the wind, with a woman in a large dress being blown sideways and various objects flying through the air, capturing the chaos of the moment.

Technique & Style

Dighton used loose, sketchy lines to convey the movement of the figures and the wind, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere.

Context

The shop, identified as 'Bowles's Ware-House', was likely a real print-selling establishment, adding a layer of specificity to the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Robert Dighton

Artist

Robert Dighton

Robert Dighton (c.1752 – 1814) was an English portrait painter, printmaker, and caricaturist. He was the founder of a dynasty of artists who followed in his footsteps.