Who painted Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury?

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury was painted by Hennell in 1940.

Where can I see Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury?

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury

Hennell , 1940

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is a watercolor work on paper by Hennell. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is a 1940 watercolour by Hennell, capturing a moment of rural activity at the Abbey Barn in Abbotsbury, with cattle entering the barn and grazing nearby.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on the everyday scene of livestock interacting with a historic rural structure, implicitly highlighting the endurance of traditional landscapes amidst wartime concerns.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick strokes, the watercolour conveys a sense of immediacy. Earthy tones dominate, with selective detail, such as the church windows, contrasting with more expressive, almost scribbled areas.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under the 'Recording Britain' project (1940-1943), funded by the Pilgrim Trust and led by Sir Kenneth Clark, this work was part of a national effort to document Britain’s changing landscape during WWII, alongside over 1,500 works by 97 artists.

Context

Created during a period of significant national upheaval, the piece reflects the project’s goal to preserve images of rural Britain, fearing loss due to war damage, urbanization, and agricultural shifts.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hennell

The Hennell family is a family of prominent silver-smiths and writers in Southern England.

Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum

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