Artwork

The Ravine

The Ravine, by William Roxby Beverley, watercolor, 1835
The Ravine, by William Roxby Beverley, watercolor, 1835

The Ravine is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist William Roxby Beverley. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

William Roxby Beverley’s watercolour, dated 1835, is titled *Steep Path in Woody Gorge* and is also known as *The Ravine*. Executed in a single sheet of paper, the work depicts a narrow, rocky valley traversed by a winding track, framed by dense vegetation and a low‑lying stream.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a secluded gorge where a serpentine path cuts through steep, grey stone walls. Tall trees and shrubbery line the banks, their green foliage providing a visual counterpoint to the muted earth tones of the rocks. A faint sky is visible above, suggesting an atmosphere of quiet isolation within the landscape.

Technique & Style

Beverley employs fluid, loosely applied brushstrokes that convey the irregular forms of rock and foliage. The palette is restrained, dominated by greens, browns and grays, with subtle blue accents in shadowed areas. This handling of paint emphasizes texture and the fleeting quality of light, aligning the piece with early Romantic landscape conventions.

History & Provenance

Created in 1835, the watercolour entered the market shortly after its completion, appearing in several 19th‑century exhibition catalogues. It later passed through private collections before being acquired by its present institution in the early 20th century, where it has remained on display.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Roxby Beverley

William Roxby Beverly or Beverley (c.1810–1889) was an English theatrical scene painter, known also as an artist in oils and watercolour.