Who painted Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk?

Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk was painted by John Sell Cotman in 1834.

Where can I see Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk?

Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk?

Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk

John Sell Cotman , 1834

Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John Sell Cotman. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

John Sell Cotman's drawing served as the source image for plate 46 in his 1834 work *Sepulchral Brasses in Norfolk and Suffolk*. It belongs to a larger project that began with his 1819 volume documenting the most notable monumental brasses of Norfolk, later expanded to include Suffolk.

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts a knight and a woman, each flanked by smaller figures. The knight, sword in hand, wears a brightly coloured tunic, while the woman is cloaked in a long mantle edged with a patterned border. Between them three distinct coats of arms are displayed, suggesting heraldic identification of the commemorated individuals.

Technique & Style

Cotman employs fine line work and subtle shading to render texture and depth, while selective colour highlights the tunic and cloak against a muted background. The drawing reflects Romantic sensibilities, favouring expressive detail and an evocative atmosphere over strict documentary precision.

History & Provenance

Created as part of Cotman's systematic survey of sepulchral brasses, the drawing was incorporated into the 1834 publication that extended his earlier 1819 series. The original drawing remains associated with the printed plates, illustrating Cotman's role as both draughtsman and antiquarian.

Context

During the early nineteenth century, interest in medieval memorials grew among scholars and the public. Cotman's work contributed to this antiquarian movement, providing visual records of brass monuments that were at risk of loss or alteration.

Artist & collection

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.