The lower ford, Hutton-le-Hole

The lower ford, Hutton-le-Hole

John Cooper

1940

watercolor

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This painting shows a quiet village scene with small houses clustered on a hill. A narrow river cuts through the foreground, with a few sheep grazing on the grassy banks. The buildings have simple roofs, some with chimneys, and the whole scene feels soft and hazy, like a cool, misty day. The artist used loose brushstrokes to keep things looking fresh and alive, even though the colors are mostly muted. The river’s movement is suggested by quick, wavy lines, while the houses blend into the landscape without sharp edges. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this in person.

More by John Cooper

Artifact World Gallery — 100,000 artworks Get the app