Artwork

Waterfall

Waterfall, by Daniel Maclise, watercolor, 1825
Waterfall, by Daniel Maclise, watercolor, 1825

Waterfall is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Daniel Maclise. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Waterfall is a watercolour drawing by Daniel Maclise, featuring a mist-shrouded waterfall in shades of gray and white.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a waterfall cascading over rugged rocks, with a winding path visible at the bottom, hinting at the presence of trees and foliage. The artwork captures the dynamic movement and raw energy of the falls.

Technique & Style

Maclise employed loose, expressive brushstrokes to convey the turbulence of the water, prioritizing the suggestion of movement over precise detail. The soft, blended edges of the water, spray, and surrounding cliffs create a sense of atmosphere.

History & Provenance

This watercolour is part of a collection of 390 drawings and sketches, housed in a thirty-frame pillar stand, featuring works by other artists, including T.S. Cooper, E. Landseer, and G. Cattermole.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Daniel Maclise

Artist

Daniel Maclise

Daniel Maclise (25 January 1806 – 25 April 1870) was an Irish history painter, literary and portrait painter, and illustrator, who worked for most of his life in London, England.