Artwork

Collioure

Collioure, by Derwent Lees, watercolor, 1915
Collioure, by Derwent Lees, watercolor, 1915

Collioure is a watercolor work on paper by the Post-Impressionist artist Derwent Lees. It dates from 1915 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Collioure is a watercolour painting by Derwent Lees, dating to around 1915, and is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a Mediterranean coastal scene, featuring steep cliffs, rocky shoreline, and a quiet bay with a small boat in the distance. The composition includes a winding path, green bushes, and bare rock, set against a pale sky.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose and quick brushstrokes, the work imparts a rough texture to the water and cliffs. Lees employed light colours to capture the effect of sunlight on the waves and rocky terrain.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1915 by Derwent Lees, the painting is now held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Context

Collioure reflects early 20th-century watercolour practices, likely influenced by the artist's observations of Mediterranean landscapes, possibly inspired by the actual town of Collioure in France, a popular destination for artists at the time.

Legacy

As part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, Collioure contributes to the institution's representation of early 20th-century watercolour art, offering insights into Derwent Lees's contribution to the medium.

Artist & collection

Artist

Derwent Lees

Derwent Lees painted quiet watercolours of sunlit southern European coasts around 1910-1930.