Artwork

Watercolour drawing by the Grieve family, probably by Thomas Grieve, showing fishing boats at Brighton

Watercolour drawing by the Grieve family, probably by Thomas Grieve, showing fishing boats at Brighton is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Thomas Grieve. It dates from 14 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

It’s credited to Thomas Grieve, part of a family known for theatre scene-painting.

This watercolour sketch shows fishing boats at Brighton in 1819. It’s credited to Thomas Grieve, part of a family known for theatre scene-painting. The work sits in the Romantic tradition, full of soft light and everyday life.

The Grieves worked backstage at Covent Garden for decades. This sheet is one of many coastal views they left behind. The family passed their skills from father to son across three generations.

Next time, look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This 1819 watercolour drawing depicts fishing boats at Brighton, attributed to Thomas Grieve, a member of a family of scene painters.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures a scene of everyday life at Brighton, showcasing the artist's interest in representing ordinary subjects.

Technique & Style

The work is characterised by soft light, aligning with the Romantic tradition, and demonstrates the Grieve family's skill in watercolour.

History & Provenance

The drawing is part of a collection donated to the V&A by Thomas Walford Grieve's son, comprising works by various family members, mostly made from life.

Context

The Grieve family worked primarily as scene painters for London theatres, with Thomas Grieve and his relatives contributing to the development of scene painting across three generations.