Who painted Cottage in a Cornfield?

Cottage in a Cornfield was painted by David Lucas in 1850.

Where can I see Cottage in a Cornfield?

Cottage in a Cornfield is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Cottage in a Cornfield

Cottage in a Cornfield is a print by David Lucas. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Cottage in a Cornfield is a print from John Constable's English Landscape series, a collection of 22 mezzotints based on his oil sketches and paintings.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a solitary stone cottage in a cornfield, with a sky filled with storm clouds. The scene showcases the interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the natural principle of chiaroscuro that Constable sought to emphasize.

Technique & Style

The mezzotint technique, used by David Lucas under Constable's supervision, creates rich, velvety shadows and deep blacks by roughening a metal plate. This process transforms Constable's oil sketches into nuanced, atmospheric prints.

History & Provenance

English Landscape was published in six parts between 1830 and 1832, with a revised edition in 1833. The series was Constable's attempt to promote appreciation for English scenery and justify his life's work.