Who painted Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury?

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury was painted by Hennell in 1940.

Where can I see Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury?

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury

Hennell , 1940

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is a watercolor work on paper by Hennell. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury is a 1940 watercolour by Hennell, capturing a moment of rural activity at the Abbey Barn in Abbotsbury, with cattle entering the barn and grazing nearby.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on the everyday scene of livestock interacting with a historic rural structure, implicitly highlighting the endurance of traditional landscapes amidst wartime concerns.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick strokes, the watercolour conveys a sense of immediacy. Earthy tones dominate, with selective detail, such as the church windows, contrasting with more expressive, almost scribbled areas.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under the 'Recording Britain' project (1940-1943), funded by the Pilgrim Trust and led by Sir Kenneth Clark, this work was part of a national effort to document Britain’s changing landscape during WWII, alongside over 1,500 works by 97 artists.

Context

Created during a period of significant national upheaval, the piece reflects the project’s goal to preserve images of rural Britain, fearing loss due to war damage, urbanization, and agricultural shifts.

Tithe Barn, Wyke, Nr. Sherborne, Hennell

Artist & collection

Artist

Hennell

The Hennell family is a family of prominent silver-smiths and writers in Southern England.

Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum

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