Artwork

Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol. II), Pl. 90: Castle of Falaise (North View)

Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol. II), Pl. 90:  Castle of Falaise (North View), by John Sell Cotman, 1821
Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol. II), Pl. 90:  Castle of Falaise (North View), by John Sell Cotman, 1821

Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol. II), Pl. 90: Castle of Falaise (North View) is a print by the Romanticist artist John Sell Cotman. It dates from 1821 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol.

About this work

This painting shows a castle in Normandy, with towers and walls.
The artist drew this from an old building, trying to show what it looked like.
This kind of drawing was important for people who wanted to learn about old buildings and how they were made.
You can learn more about this style by looking at the work of artist: John Sell Cotman (British, 1782–1842)

Overview

Architectural Antiquities of Normandy (Vol. II), Pl. 90: Castle of Falaise (North View) is a print created by John Sell Cotman in 1821, featuring a northern perspective of the medieval Castle of Falaise.

Subject & Meaning

The print documents the Castle of Falaise’s architecture from a specific northern viewpoint, contributing to Cotman’s comprehensive series on Normandy’s architectural ruins, aimed at educating viewers about historical buildings.

Technique & Style

While specific techniques used in this print are not detailed here, Cotman’s work with the Norwich School often emphasized meticulous detail and realism in capturing architectural subjects, likely reflected in this precise depiction of the castle.

History & Provenance

Created in 1821 by John Sell Cotman, a Norwich School artist, the print’s provenance details are not provided, but its creation follows Cotman’s established interest in architectural antiquities after his move to London and associations with notable artists.

Context

Part of a broader 19th-century interest in historical preservation and documentation, this print would have catered to a growing audience interested in antiquities and architectural history, particularly of Normandy.

Legacy

As part of Cotman’s *Architectural Antiquities of Normandy*, the print contributes to the artist’s legacy in architectural illustration, influencing subsequent generations in the documentation and appreciation of medieval architecture.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Sell Cotman

Artist

John Sell Cotman

John Sell Cotman (16 May 1782 – 24 July 1842) was an English marine and landscape painter, etcher, illustrator, and a leading member of the Norwich School of painters.

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