Who painted Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York?

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York was painted by Michael Rothenstein in 1940.

Where can I see Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York?

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York?

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York is associated with Social Realism.

Artwork

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York

Michael Rothenstein , 1940

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York is a watercolor work on paper by the Social Realist artist Michael Rothenstein. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Corner of Grape Lane and Swinegate, York is a 1940 watercolour by Michael Rothenstein, capturing a quiet street scene in York during the Second World War.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene, though somewhat deteriorated, urban corner with weathered brick buildings, boarded-up windows, and empty streets, reflecting the wartime atmosphere of preservation and subtle decay.

Technique & Style

Rothenstein employed loose, expressive brushstrokes to convey the texture of buildings and pavement, utilizing a muted palette dominated by earthy tones to evoke a sense of calm and understated resilience.

History & Provenance

Created for the Recording Britain project, initiated by Sir Kenneth Clark and funded by the Pilgrim Trust, this work is part of a larger collection (over 1,500 pieces by 97 artists) aimed at documenting Britain’s landscape and urban scenes amidst wartime threats.

Context

Part of a project focusing primarily on England (with limited Welsh and no Northern Irish participation, and a separate Scottish scheme), it contributes to a national record of places and traditions perceived as vulnerable during WWII.

Legacy

Now housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the painting remains accessible for public viewing, offering a glimpse into Britain’s wartime urban landscape and the artistic response to preservation efforts of the time.