Artwork

Mode of drawing or raising water at a farm near Syracuse On the back, sketch of an ox

Mode of drawing or raising water at a farm near Syracuse On the back, sketch of an ox is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Cooper Willyams. It dates from 1798 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour depicts a rural scene near Syracuse, showing a farm with a water-raising system and people going about their daily activities.

Subject & Meaning

The painting references a description from C. Willyams' 1802 publication *A Voyage up the Mediterranean in His Majesty's Ship the Swiftsure*, capturing a rustic scene with a large stone building and a pulley system.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates depth and dimension, highlighting the textures and forms of the buildings and figures, and conveying a sense of rural simplicity and tranquility.

History & Provenance

The watercolour was purchased at Bonhams in December 1970 for £14, as recorded by Rodney Searight. The reverse of the painting features a sketch of an ox.