Artwork

Laveno

Laveno, by Walter Crane, 1902
Laveno, by Walter Crane, 1902

Laveno is a drawing by Walter Crane. It dates from 1902 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The artist signed it in the corner with the date "Sept 1902" and the word "Laveno," likely the place.

This sketch shows a quiet lakeside scene at sunset. The water is calm, reflecting the warm orange and yellow sky. On the shore, a few boats sit near a small dock, and a white cloth hangs over something hidden. Trees and hills frame the scene, with brushstrokes loose and quick.

The artist signed it in the corner with the date "Sept 1902" and the word "Laveno," likely the place. The lines on the shore look like they might be made with a pencil or pen, layered carefully.

Check out cross-hatching to see how artists build texture with lines.

Overview

Laveno is a watercolour drawing on brown paper created by Walter Crane in September 1902. The piece captures a serene lakeside scene at sunset.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a tranquil lakeside at dusk, with a calm lake reflecting a warm, orange-yellow sky. Elements on the shore include boats near a small dock and a draped white cloth, set against a backdrop of trees and hills.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick brushstrokes, the work combines watercolour with possible pencil or pen details, evident in the shore's lined textures. The artist's use of layered lines suggests an exploration of texture, akin to cross-hatching techniques.

History & Provenance

Signed by Walter Crane with the date 'Sept 1902' and the title 'Laveno', presumably indicating the location. The current provenance details are not specified.

Context

Created during Crane's later period, Laveno reflects the artist's ability to capture serene natural landscapes, a common theme in early 20th-century art.

Legacy

While specific impact or notable exhibitions of Laveno are not detailed, it contributes to Walter Crane's broader body of work in watercolour, showcasing his skill in depicting peaceful, everyday scenes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Walter Crane

Artist

Walter Crane

Walter Crane (15 August 1845 – 14 March 1915) was an English artist and book illustrator.