Artwork

The Legend of St Eustace

The Legend of St Eustace, by Ernest William Tristram, watercolor, 1929
The Legend of St Eustace, by Ernest William Tristram, watercolor, 1929

The Legend of St Eustace is a watercolor work on paper by the Arts and Crafts movement artist Ernest William Tristram. It dates from 1929 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour painting is a replica of a late 15th-century wall painting, depicting The Legend of St Eustace. It is painted on the back and sides of a round-headed recess.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows a medieval-dressed man on horseback amidst deer, dogs, and birds, set against a forest landscape with a body of water. The dynamic pose of the man and rearing horse suggests a narrative moment.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolour with muted colours, the painting achieves a serene atmosphere. The artist's composition and colour usage create depth, drawing the viewer into the scene.

Context

The painting is associated with a wall painting in Canterbury Cathedral's choir aisle, indicating a connection to the cathedral's decorative scheme.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ernest William Tristram

Artist

Ernest William Tristram

Ernest William Tristram (1882–1952) was a British art historian, artist and conservator, and Professor of Design at the Royal College of Art (1926–1948).