Who painted Timber Felling in Essex?

Timber Felling in Essex was painted by Michael Rothenstein in 1945.

Where can I see Timber Felling in Essex?

Timber Felling in Essex is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Timber Felling in Essex

Michael Rothenstein , 1945

Timber Felling in Essex is a print by Michael Rothenstein. It dates from 1945 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Michael Rothenstein made this lithograph in 1945. It shows everyday life in Essex, where he lived. The print shows people working with timber.

This was Rothenstein’s very first print. It came from a big project to bring art into schools after the war. Kids could pin it right on their classroom walls.

Look up Rothenstein’s later prints to see how his style grew.

door: artist: Rothenstein, Michael

Overview

Timber Felling in Essex is a 1945 lithograph by Michael Rothenstein, his first print. It depicts a scene of rural labor in Essex, where the artist resided.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows people working with timber, capturing everyday life in the Essex landscape. It presents a pastoral scene, reflecting Rothenstein's surroundings in the village of Great Bardfield.

History & Provenance

The lithograph was created for the School Prints scheme, initiated by Brenda Rawnsley in 1945 to make contemporary art accessible to school children. The scheme commissioned artists to produce prints that could be affordably sold to schools.

Technique & Style

The print features a drawn frame, characteristic of the School Prints scheme, allowing it to be easily pinned to a wall. Rothenstein's work was part of a broader artistic response to the post-war initiative, which encouraged artists to create accessible and affordable art.