Artwork
Lassington Oak
Lassington Oak is a watercolor work on paper by Swan. It dates from 1942 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The style feels quick and simple, like a sketch rather than a detailed study.
This painting shows a single tree with twisted branches and sparse leaves. The colors are mostly pale greens and browns, with some yellows mixed in. The brushstrokes are loose and watery, giving it a soft, sketchy look.
The artist signed it "Swan" in the corner, along with the year 1942. The style feels quick and simple, like a sketch rather than a detailed study.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.
Overview
Lassington Oak is a 1942 watercolour by Swan, portraying a centuries-old, twisted oak tree in a portrait format. The piece captures the tree’s protected trunk and emphasizes its height through an upward gaze into the leaf canopy.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a historically documented oak near Gloucester, was noted for its age and resilience, surviving until 1960. The painting highlights its preservation efforts via visible railings and supports.
Technique & Style
Characterized by loose, watery brushstrokes and a muted palette of pale greens, browns, and yellows, the work adopts a soft, sketchy aesthetic, suggesting a rapid, simple approach rather than a detailed study.
History & Provenance
Created during WWII, Lassington Oak was part of the 'Recording Britain' collection, a Pilgrim Trust-backed initiative to record British landscapes and heritage during the war. Signed 'Swan, 1942'.
Context
Part of a broader wartime effort to document national heritage, the painting reflects the importance placed on preserving cultural and natural landmarks amidst conflict.
Legacy
As part of 'Recording Britain', it contributes to a historical record of Britain’s pre-war landscape, with similar works found in collections like the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
In 1942, this watercolor artist captured Cirencester and the Cotswolds in soft, detailed scenes.
