Artwork
Barber's Piles, Poole
Barber's Piles, Poole is a watercolor work on paper by Longley. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Barber's Piles, Poole is a 1940 watercolour painting by Longley, created as part of the 'Recording Britain' collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene street scene with a mix of old and new buildings, a prominent white structure in the background, and an empty street, evoking a sense of stillness.
Technique & Style
Rendered in muted earthy tones, the work employs subtle colour choices to convey a tranquil atmosphere, with chiaroscuro potentially used to create depth.
History & Provenance
Commissioned during World War II, the painting is part of a collection initiated by the Pilgrim Trust and directed by Sir Kenneth Clark to document Britain's changing landscape.
Context
The 'Recording Britain' collection aimed to preserve a record of England's national identity, focusing on market towns, churches, and rural landscapes amidst wartime concerns.
Artist & collection
Artist
A watercolour artist active around 1940, Longley painted quiet English landmarks in soft washes.
Towcester High Street from the Pomfret Arms Corner, Northamptonshire
Steyning, Sussex
Ashbourne
East Bergholt
Mansion House Lane, Bridgwater
Preparing for the Coronation, West Malling, May, 1937.
Old Cottages, Long Crendon
Condemned Property at Isleworth
Georgian Houses, Market Hill, Buckingham
Catharine Place, Bath, Somerset
Bury St Edmunds
Chancery Lane, Thrapston