Who painted Shelley House, Marlow?

Shelley House, Marlow was painted by Du Plessis in 1940.

Where can I see Shelley House, Marlow?

Shelley House, Marlow is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Shelley House, Marlow?

Shelley House, Marlow is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Shelley House, Marlow

Du Plessis , 1940

Shelley House, Marlow is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Du Plessis. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Shelley House, Marlow is a 1940 watercolour by Du Plessis, capturing a serene street scene in Marlow with a row of light-colored houses and a prominent tree, rendered in gentle hues and soft, delicate watercolour technique.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a quintessential English street, embodying national identity and everyday life. Created during wartime, it reflects the 'Recording Britain' project's goal to preserve a visual record of the country's landscape and architecture, amid fears of destruction and change.

Technique & Style

Du Plessis employed watercolour to achieve a soft, delicate appearance. Gentle colors and subtle shading create depth and atmosphere, characteristic of the medium's expressive capabilities.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under the 'Recording Britain' initiative (1940s), led by Sir Kenneth Clark, this work is part of a larger effort by artists like John Piper and Rowland Hilder to document England's topography during WWII.

Context

Produced amidst WWII concerns over bomb damage and social upheaval, the painting is a wartime record of England's everyday landscape, distinct from more dramatic depictions of the era.

Legacy

As part of the 'Recording Britain' collection, Shelley House, Marlow contributes to a comprehensive archival record of England's pre-war appearance, retaining historical and artistic significance within this collective project.