Artwork
Petersham Avenue - looking towards Ham House
Petersham Avenue - looking towards Ham House is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist John Sanderson Sanderson-Wells. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Petersham Avenue - looking towards Ham House is a watercolour drawing by John Sanderson-Wells, created in 1940 as part of the 'Recording Britain' collection.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a rural avenue with mature trees, people, and animals, capturing a moment in the British landscape during World War II. It reflects concerns about the impact of war and broader changes on rural life.
Technique & Style
The artist employed light, loose strokes to convey movement and texture, suggesting a cold, still atmosphere. The use of watercolour allowed for a delicate, suggestive representation of the scene.
History & Provenance
The work was produced under a wartime scheme to document the British landscape and national identity, alongside over 1,500 other works by 97 artists.
Context
The 'Recording Britain' collection was initiated during the Second World War, driven by concerns about potential bomb damage, invasion, and changes to rural life.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Sanderson Sanderson-Wells
John Sanderson-Wells painted quiet watercolor scenes of London’s riverside in the 1940s.
