Artwork

Mending the Thatch; A cottage at Little Avebury

Mending the Thatch; A cottage at Little Avebury, by Lines, watercolor, 1942
Mending the Thatch; A cottage at Little Avebury, by Lines, watercolor, 1942

Mending the Thatch; A cottage at Little Avebury is a watercolor work on paper by Lines. It dates from 1942 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Mending the Thatch; A cottage at Little Avebury is a 1942 watercolour painting depicting a serene rural scene of a man repairing a thatched cottage roof amidst lush greenery.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a moment of traditional rural life, reflecting the Recording Britain project's goal of preserving national identity through topographical imagery during wartime.

Technique & Style

Soft colours and gentle brushstrokes evoke warmth and coziness, while detailed textures of thatch and brickwork add depth and realism to the tranquil atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created under the Recording Britain initiative (funded by the Pilgrim Trust and led by Sir Kenneth Clark), this work is one of over 1,500 by 97 commissioned artists documenting Britain during WWII.

Artist & collection

Artist

Lines

Lines (1909–1968) was an artist.