Artwork
Unfinished drawing of sweet pea blossoms
Unfinished drawing of sweet pea blossoms is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Bertram Potter. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
He painted it while staying with family in the English countryside, where he and his sister sketched plants together.
Bertram Potter’s sweet pea watercolor from 1888 is a delicate floral study. He painted it while staying with family in the English countryside, where he and his sister sketched plants together. Though unfinished, the soft washes show his quiet skill with watercolor.
It’s one of the few works he left behind—he focused more on encouraging Beatrix’s art than making his own.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This 1888 watercolour, an unfinished study of sweet pea blossoms, is a work by Bertram Potter, a lesser-known artist and brother of Beatrix Potter.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts sweet pea flowers, a subject that reflects Bertram's interest in natural history and botanical illustration, shared with his sister Beatrix.
Technique & Style
Characterised by soft washes, the watercolour showcases Bertram's skill in handling the medium, even in an unfinished state.
History & Provenance
Created during a family stay in the English countryside, the work dates to a period when Bertram and Beatrix Potter would often sketch plants together.
Context
Bertram's artistic output was overshadowed by his sister's success, and he is known to have encouraged and advised Beatrix in her own artistic endeavours.
Artist & collection
