The Defence of Basing House by the Cavaliers against the Roundheads

1881

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century Battle

Dominant colour

The Defence of Basing House by the Cavaliers against the Roundheads is a 1881 by Cope, a Impressionism work, depicting Battle, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Cope
When & what style?: 1881 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This sketch shows a chaotic battle scene with lots of people fighting. Some are standing, swinging swords and holding shields, while others are on the ground, looking hurt. The background has a rough wall and some buildings, and the whole scene feels messy and fast-paced. One odd detail: the artist used quick, sketchy lines to show movement, almost like scribbles. It’s not polished—just raw energy. If you like this style, check out cross-hatching next to see how artists build texture with lines.

The story of this work

Overview

The Defence of Basing House by the Cavaliers against the Roundheads is a sepia drawing created as a preparatory study for a fresco of the same subject, painted in 1862 using the water-glass method for the Peers' Corridor in the House of Lords.

Read the full account in the museum source.