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Artwork

Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury

Merritt

Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury, by Merritt, watercolor
Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury, by Merritt, watercolor

Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury is a watercolor work on paper by Merritt. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A watercolour painting created in 1942 by Merritt as part of the Recording Britain project, depicting the staircase of a former inn, 'The Plume of Feathers,' on Queen Street in Salisbury.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a wooden spiral staircase with a railing, set against warm beige brick walls, and adorned with a hanging lantern and potted plants, evoking a sense of warmth and coziness.

Technique & Style

Merritt's use of watercolour creates a delicate and subtle effect, with soft lighting and earthy tones contributing to the overall atmosphere of comfort and relaxation.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under a wartime scheme to document Britain's heritage, funded by the Pilgrim Trust and overseen by Sir Kenneth Clark, the work is now part of the Recording Britain collection.

Context

The painting reflects efforts to preserve scenes seen as part of a vanishing national identity amid wartime threats and social changes.

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.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury?

Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury was painted by Merritt.

Where can I see Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury?

Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Can I buy a print of Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury?

Museum-quality prints of Staircase of a former Inn, "The Plume of Feathers," Queen Street, Salisbury are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.