Artwork

Watercolour drawing by the Grieve family, probably by Thomas Grieve, showing a Norman building at Canterbury

Watercolour drawing by the Grieve family, probably by Thomas Grieve, showing a Norman building at Canterbury 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. This watercolour drawing, dated 1840, depicts a Norman-era building in Canterbury.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour drawing, dated 1840, depicts a Norman-era building in Canterbury. Attributed to Thomas Grieve, it is part of a collection created by the Grieve family, renowned 19th-century scene painters for London theatres.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing focuses on a specific Norman architectural example in Canterbury, suggesting an interest in historical and regional subjects, potentially informing the family's theatrical scenery work.

Technique & Style

While the specific techniques used in this 1840 piece are not detailed, the Grieve family's evolution from romantic to realistic scene painting styles during the 19th century contextualizes the drawing's likely attention to architectural detail.

History & Provenance

The drawing is part of a Grieve family collection donated to the V&A by Thomas Walford Grieve's son. It includes other watercolours of Kent and southern England, apparently drawn from life.

Context

Created amidst the Grieve family's transition from romantic to realistic scene painting, this work reflects their broader practice of capturing regional and historical subjects, possibly for both personal and professional inspiration.