Artwork
On the Stour (Reverse: Study of Cows)
On the Stour (Reverse: Study of Cows) is an unspecified painting by John Constable. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
John Constable’s 1830 oil on canvas, titled On the Stour (Reverse: Study of Cows), presents a quiet riverside landscape. A modest stretch of water is flanked by scattered trees, while a distant boat drifts under a cloud‑filled sky. In the foreground, a herd of cows grazes close to the water’s edge, lending the scene a pastoral calm.
Subject & Meaning
The composition captures a typical English countryside moment, emphasizing the relationship between land, water, and livestock. By placing the cows near the riverbank, Constable underscores the interdependence of agriculture and the natural environment, inviting viewers to contemplate the everyday rhythms of rural life.
Technique & Style
Constable employs a palette of muted greens, browns, and sky blues, allowing subtle shifts in light to model form. His brushwork is relatively loose, especially in the foliage and cloud formations, creating a sense of atmospheric depth. The handling of water and the reflective surface demonstrates his interest in capturing fleeting weather effects.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1830, the work entered the collection of the Scottish National Gallery, where it remains on display. Its reverse side bears a study of cows, indicating Constable’s practice of reusing canvases and experimenting with compositional ideas during his prolific landscape period.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Constable (; 11 June 1776 – 31 March 1837) was an English landscape painter in the Romantic tradition.
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