Artwork

Ruins of a church

Ruins of a church, by John Sell Cotman, 1800
Ruins of a church, by John Sell Cotman, 1800

Ruins of a church is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John Sell Cotman. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A chalk drawing shows the remains of a church in a ruined state.

About this work

Overview

A chalk drawing shows the remains of a church in a ruined state.

Subject & Meaning

The church, constructed from stone, features tall arches and columns, and is overgrown with surrounding trees and bushes, conveying a sense of age and decay.

Technique & Style

The artist has employed detailed rendering to capture the texture of the stone and foliage, characteristic of a meticulous drawing style.

Context

This work is associated with the Romanticism movement, which often emphasized emotion, nature, and the passage of time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Sell Cotman

Artist

John Sell Cotman

John Sell Cotman (16 May 1782 – 24 July 1842) was an English marine and landscape painter, etcher, illustrator, and a leading member of the Norwich School of painters.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Ruins of a church?

Ruins of a church was painted by John Sell Cotman in 1800.

Where can I see Ruins of a church?

Ruins of a church is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Ruins of a church?

Ruins of a church is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Ruins of a church?

Museum-quality prints of Ruins of a church are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.