Artwork

View of the ghats from Matheran

View of the ghats from Matheran, by John Varley, paint
View of the ghats from Matheran, by John Varley, paint

View of the ghats from Matheran is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist John Varley. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This painting shows green hills rising behind stone steps. It’s a quiet view of Matheran’s ghats, painted in 1892.

The artist went to India in 1891 and focused on the landscape’s soft edges. Far less known than his famous grandfather, he still made sharp, real scenes.

His work feels like the older Varley’s watercolors. See more like this at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

View of the ghats from Matheran is a painting by John Varley the Younger, created in 1892. It depicts a serene scene of the ghats at Matheran, a hill station in India.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows stone steps leading to green hills, capturing a tranquil view of Matheran's ghats. Matheran, meaning 'mother forest', was a popular British retreat from Mumbai's summer heat.

Technique & Style

Varley's work is characterized by soft edges, evident in his depiction of the landscape. The painting's style is reminiscent of his grandfather's watercolors, with a focus on realistic representation.

History & Provenance

John Varley the Younger traveled to India in 1891, where he painted this scene. He exhibited his work at the Royal Academy and other galleries between 1870 and 1895.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Varley

Artist

John Varley

John Varley (17 August 1778 – 17 November 1842) was an English watercolour painter and astrologer, and a close friend of William Blake.