Artwork
Salisbury Cathedral from the Close
Salisbury Cathedral from the Close is an oil painting by the Romanticist artist John Constable. It dates from 1820 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This oil painting is a preparatory study for a larger work depicting Salisbury Cathedral.
About this work
John Constable painted this oil sketch in 1820 to help plan a bigger view of Salisbury Cathedral. The bishop who lived nearby asked him to capture the scene. It’s one of several quick studies Constable made first.
This sketch was just a step toward the final painting. It shows Constable testing light and shapes before committing to canvas.
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Overview
This oil painting is a preparatory study for a larger work depicting Salisbury Cathedral.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows a view of Salisbury Cathedral from the grounds of the nearby bishop's house, capturing the cathedral's appearance in a specific setting.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by its sketch-like quality, with loose brushstrokes and an emphasis on capturing light and composition.
History & Provenance
The painting was commissioned by the Bishop of Salisbury and created by John Constable in 1820 as one of several studies for a larger painting.
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Artist & collection
Artist
John Constable was an English landscape painter in the Romantic tradition. Born in Suffolk, he is known principally for revolutionising the genre of landscape painting with his pictures of Dedham Vale, the area on the…
