Artwork

Bristol Cathedral from College Green

Bristol Cathedral from College Green, by Thomas Girtin, graphite, 1797
Bristol Cathedral from College Green, by Thomas Girtin, graphite, 1797

Bristol Cathedral from College Green is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Thomas Girtin. It dates from 1797 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Bristol Cathedral from College Green is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by Thomas Girtin in 1797. It is currently held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Technique & Style

The drawing features loose, expressive lines achieved with graphite on wove paper. Most of the paper remains white, emphasizing the cathedral's form. Quick, light strokes suggest architectural details, while surrounding elements are minimally indicated.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts Bristol Cathedral, focusing on its tall spire and smaller towers, with an emphasis on its architectural shape and structure. The surrounding environment is subtly suggested through sparse indications of trees and other buildings.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Girtin

Artist

Thomas Girtin

Thomas Girtin (1802–1802) was an artist.

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