Artwork

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton, by Merritt, watercolor
Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton, by Merritt, watercolor

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton is a watercolor work on paper by the Regionalist artist Merritt. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton is a 1942 watercolour by Merritt, depicting a serene riverside scene with a stone bridge, everyday activities, and traditional architecture in muted, hazy tones.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a quiet, unassuming moment in a traditional English village, emphasizing the preservation of cultural heritage and everyday life amidst wartime disruption.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose brushstrokes and soft, muted colours (greens, browns, grays), the work conveys a quick, sketchy impression, focusing on textural and simple compositional elements.

History & Provenance

Created for the Recording Britain project (1942), led by Sir Kenneth Clark and funded by the Pilgrim Trust, as part of a national effort to document threatened landscapes and cultural identity during WWII.

Context

Part of a larger collection of over 1,500 works by 97 artists, all aimed at sustaining British art and cultural heritage during the uncertainties of World War II.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Merritt

Artist

Merritt

Anna Massey Lea Merritt (September 13, 1844 – April 7, 1930) was an American artist from Philadelphia who lived and worked in Great Britain for most of her life.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton?

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton was painted by Merritt.

Where can I see Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton?

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton?

Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton is associated with Regionalism.

Can I buy a print of Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton?

Museum-quality prints of Bridge over the River Madder, Wilton are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.