Who painted The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames?

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames was painted by William Havell in 1825.

Where can I see The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames?

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames?

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames

William Havell , 1825

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames is a drawing by the Romanticist artist William Havell. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Match at Henley-on-Thames is a drawing depicting a lively scene of the renowned rowing competition between the two universities, set against the backdrop of Henley-on-Thames.

Subject & Meaning

The subject centers on the rowing match, capturing the intensity of the race with two teams in long boats, while also highlighting the spectatorship with a dense crowd on the shore, conveying the social and competitive spirit of the event.

Technique & Style

Executed in sepia and Indian ink, the drawing features soft, sketchy lines and fine, repeated strokes, characteristic of cross-hatching techniques popular during the Romantic era, aimed at quickly conveying movement, energy, and depth.

History & Provenance

Attributed to William Havell, this drawing is likely part of a series engraved by John Pye II for *Peacock's Polite Repository or Pocket Almanac* (1813-1858), with similar works housed in the Felix Joseph Collection at Nottingham Museum and Art Gallery.

Context

Created during the Romantic era, the piece reflects the period's artistic emphasis on capturing dynamic scenes and the growing interest in sporting events as public spectacles.