Artwork
Outside the Manor House, Ham Street
Outside the Manor House, Ham Street is a watercolor work on paper by John Sanderson Sanderson-Wells. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Outside the Manor House, Ham Street is a watercolour created in 1940 by John Sanderson, depicting a serene rural scene of horse riders and accompanying horses on a quiet road in Ham, with a mature tree and boundary wall prominent on the right.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork captures a moment of everyday rural life, conveying a sense of calm and continuity. Commissioned under the 'Recording Britain' project, it aimed to document and preserve aspects of the British landscape and national identity during wartime.
Technique & Style
Sanderson employed quick, light watercolour strokes to evoke movement and capture the play of light. The loose, sketchy rendering of tree branches and uneven ground adds to the piece's spontaneous, observational feel.
History & Provenance
Created for the 'Recording Britain' initiative (1939-1945), led by Sir Kenneth Clark and funded by the Pilgrim Trust, this work was part of over 1,500 pieces produced to support artists and preserve national heritage during World War II.
Context
The 'Recording Britain' project responded to wartime concerns over potential destruction of the British landscape and cultural identity. It provided crucial support to artists during a period of uncertainty.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Sanderson Sanderson-Wells
John Sanderson-Wells painted quiet watercolor scenes of London’s riverside in the 1940s.
