Artwork
Odell Castle on the Ouse
Odell Castle on the Ouse is a watercolor work on paper by the Post-Impressionist artist Thurston Laidlaw Shoosmith. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Thurston Laidlaw Shoosmith’s 1910 watercolour presents Odell Castle perched beside the River Ouse. The composition centers on the light‑yellow stone structure, framed by surrounding foliage and a reflective stretch of water that mirrors the building’s silhouette.
Subject & Meaning
The work captures a tranquil riverside scene, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between the historic castle and its natural setting. The calm water and subdued palette convey a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to linger on the peaceful atmosphere of the English countryside.
Technique & Style
Executed in a straightforward manner, the painting employs bold brushstrokes and a restrained colour range of muted greens, browns, and yellows. Shoosmith’s handling of the medium allows the water’s surface to echo the castle’s form, while the simplified treatment of trees and sky contributes to the overall serenity of the image.
History & Provenance
Signed by the artist, the watercolour dates to 1910, situating it within Shoosmith’s early twentieth‑century output. The piece documents a specific view of Odell Castle, reflecting the period’s interest in rural English landmarks as subjects for watercolour studies.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thurston Laidlaw Shoosmith (1865–1933) was an artist, born in Northampton.
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