Artwork

River Scene with Figures and Buildings

River Scene with Figures and Buildings, by Thomas Rowlandson, watercolor, 1780
River Scene with Figures and Buildings, by Thomas Rowlandson, watercolor, 1780

River Scene with Figures and Buildings is a watercolor work on paper by the Rococo painting artist Thomas Rowlandson. It dates from 1780 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

River Scene with Figures and Buildings is a watercolour painting created by Thomas Rowlandson in 1780.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene riverside scene with buildings, trees, and figures. Two people are shown resting or conversing on the grassy bank, surrounded by natural scenery and simple architecture.

Technique & Style

Rowlandson employed light, loose watercolour strokes to achieve a sketchy, informal effect, characteristic of the style used for naturalistic scenes during the late 18th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Rowlandson

Artist

Thomas Rowlandson

Thomas Rowlandson (; 13 July 1757 – 21 April 1827) was an English artist and caricaturist of the Georgian Era, noted for his political satire and social observation.