Artwork

River scene: cattle in shallows

River scene: cattle in shallows, by John Varley, watercolor, 1800
River scene: cattle in shallows, by John Varley, watercolor, 1800

River scene: cattle in shallows is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist John Varley. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

River scene: cattle in shallows is a watercolour painting created by John Varley in 1800.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene river landscape with cattle wading in shallow water, accompanied by two figures on a rocky outcropping. Rolling hills in soft greens and browns rise in the background, evoking a sense of depth and tranquility.

Technique & Style

Varley employed watercolour to achieve a light, airy effect, using subtle colour shifts to convey depth and distance. The hills fade into mist, enhancing the sense of vastness and peacefulness.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Varley

Artist

John Varley

John Varley (17 August 1778 – 17 November 1842) was an English watercolour painter and astrologer, and a close friend of William Blake.