A bridge over a stream, with a cottage behind

A bridge over a stream, with a cottage behind

John Constable

1829

watercolor

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This sketch shows a simple scene: a small bridge over a narrow stream, with a lone cottage tucked behind it. The trees are dark and leafy, while the sky is soft and pale. The water looks shallow, and the grass along the bank is drawn in quick, rough strokes. Notice how the artist left some areas almost blank—like the sky—and only added color where it matters. The bridge looks sturdy but small, fitting the quiet mood of the whole scene. If you like this style, look up Constable, John (RA) next.

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