Artwork

Gwydir Uchaf Chapel; details of ceiling

Gwydir Uchaf Chapel; details of ceiling, by Rowntree, watercolor, 1941
Gwydir Uchaf Chapel; details of ceiling, by Rowntree, watercolor, 1941

Gwydir Uchaf Chapel; details of ceiling is a watercolor work on paper by the Arts and Crafts movement artist Rowntree. It dates from 1941 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1941 watercolour by Rowntree captures two angelic figures from the ceiling of Gwydir Uchaf Chapel, executed as part of the 'Recording Britain' project during WWII.

Subject & Meaning

The work focuses on serene, floating angels—one in red, one in white—with outstretched arms and widespread wings, set against a soft blue sky with white clouds, evoking peace and tranquility.

Technique & Style

Rowntree's watercolour technique achieves a dreamy quality, with muted tones and delicate rendering of celestial elements, emphasizing the chapel's decorative interior.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under Sir Kenneth Clark's 'Recording Britain' initiative, this piece is one of over 1,500 works by 97 artists aimed at preserving Britain's cultural heritage during wartime.

Context

Part of a broader effort to document Welsh and British sites, this work highlights the project's emphasis on capturing national landmarks and rural scenes amidst wartime threats.

Artist & collection

Artist

Rowntree

Rowntree (1915–1997) was an artist, born in Scarborough.