Artwork

On the Hamoaze, Plymouth

On the Hamoaze, Plymouth, by Phillips Jackson, watercolor, 1850
On the Hamoaze, Plymouth, by Phillips Jackson, watercolor, 1850

On the Hamoaze, Plymouth is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Phillips Jackson. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

On the Hamoaze, Plymouth is a watercolour painting created by Phillips Jackson in 1850. It is a serene depiction of a river scene, signed by the artist.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a tranquil river with a small boat and a large, weathered ship on the shore. The still water and soft blue haze of the distant hills create a peaceful atmosphere, while the abandoned ship adds a sense of mystery.

Technique & Style

Jackson employed light washes to blur the edges of objects, achieving a quiet and dreamy effect. This technique contributes to the overall calmness of the scene.

History & Provenance

The painting was part of Richard Ellison's collection of 100 British watercolours. After his death, his widow donated the collection to support the establishment of a national watercolour collection in 1860 and 1873.

Artist & collection

Artist

Phillips Jackson

Phillips Jackson spent his life staring at the sea. He lived in Plymouth, where the River Tamar meets the English Channel, and his watercolors capture the way light bounces off choppy brown water. He didn’t make the…