Artwork

A windy day

A windy day, by George Morland, oil, 1793
A windy day, by George Morland, oil, 1793

A windy day is an oil painting by George Morland. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

A Windy Day, an oil painting by George Morland, circa 1793, presents a serene landscape scene with figures engaged in everyday activities.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts two men, one in a white coat and the other in red, with a dog, in the foreground. A horse-drawn cart and trees in the background add depth and context, suggesting a tranquil, leisurely moment.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the work exemplifies a genre scene, characteristic of Morland's style, which drew influence from Dutch Golden Age painting in its rich landscape and rustic themes.

History & Provenance

Created during a period preceding a shift towards greater originality in Morland's work (post-1790s), this painting reflects his early thematic focus. Morland's later life was marked by personal struggles, despite prolific output.

Context

Part of a broader body of work by Morland featuring farms, smugglers, and gypsies, many of which were popularized through prints, A Windy Day sits within the artist's exploration of everyday rural life.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Morland

Artist

George Morland

George Morland (26 June 1763 – 29 October 1804) was an English painter. His early work was influenced by Francis Wheatley, but after the 1790s he came into his own style. His best compositions focus on rustic scenes:…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Fitzwilliam Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.