Artwork

Autumn woods

Autumn woods, by John Linnell, oil, 1842
Autumn woods, by John Linnell, oil, 1842

Autumn woods is an oil painting by John Linnell. It dates from 1842 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Autumn Woods is a panel painting created by English landscape painter and engraver John Linnell around 1842, featuring a meticulously detailed woodland scene.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a serene forest landscape, emphasizing the natural beauty of trees in various sizes and colors against a blue sky, evoking tranquility and harmony.

Technique & Style

Linnell's naturalist approach, influenced by Northern Renaissance art, is evident in the detailed rendering of trunks, branches, and leaves, with a notable use of chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1842, the work reflects Linnell's meticulous craftsmanship, characteristic of his practice, with associations to notable contemporaries like William Blake.

Context

Autumn Woods sits within the broader context of 19th-century English landscape painting, where detailed, naturalist depictions of the outdoors were highly valued.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of Autumn Woods are not highlighted, it contributes to Linnell's reputation for precise, beautiful landscape renderings that reflect his engagement with both traditional and contemporary artistic circles.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Linnell

Artist

John Linnell

John Linnell (16 June 1792 – 20 January 1882) was an English engraver, portrait painter, and landscape painter.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Fitzwilliam Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.