The South Court during the construction in September 1861 of the building for the International Exhibition, South Kensington

1862

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century Architectural

Dominant colour

The South Court during the construction in September 1861 of the building for the International Exhibition, South Kensington is a 1862 by William Henry Prior, a Impressionism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: William Henry Prior
When & what style?: 1862 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This sketch shows a building site with half-finished scaffolding and wooden beams scattered everywhere. Two workers stand in the center, one carrying a bundle, while the skeletal structure of arches and supports looms behind them. The sky is pale, and the ground is dusty, with piles of lumber and tools lying around. The artist focused on how messy and busy construction sites really are, not just the final result. The drawing looks a bit rough, like a quick sketch made on-site. If you like this, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum for more works like it.

The story of this work

Overview

A watercolour drawing by William Henry Prior from 1862 depicts the South Court under construction in September 1861, showing scattered workmen throughout the scene. The artist has signed the work.

Read the full account in the museum source.