Artwork

A Mill

A Mill, by David Lucas, ink, 1829
A Mill, by David Lucas, ink, 1829

A Mill is an ink print by the Romanticist artist David Lucas. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

A Mill is a mezzotint print created by David Lucas in 1829. This work depicts a windmill in contrasting light, with the structure illuminated against a backdrop of dark, foreboding clouds and a near-black horizon.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a windmill, is portrayed in a state of serene resilience against an ominous sky, suggesting a theme of steadfastness or contrast between tranquility and turmoil.

Technique & Style

Executed in mezzotint, a technique renowned for its capacity to achieve deep shadows and vibrant highlights, the print showcases Lucas's mastery of this challenging medium. The use of rocked tools on metal plates enables the striking contrast seen in the work.

History & Provenance

This piece is identified as a progress proof, indicating it is an intermediate stage in the printing process, preceding the final version. Its current location is not specified here, though similar works can be found at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Artist & collection

Portrait of David Lucas

Artist

David Lucas

David Lucas (1802–1881) was a British artist.

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