Artwork

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe, by Seabrooke, watercolor, 1940
St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe, by Seabrooke, watercolor, 1940

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe is a watercolor work on paper by the Naïve art artist Seabrooke. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. St.

About this work

Overview

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe is a watercolour painting created by Seabrooke in 1940. The work captures the church's distinctive tower and surrounding landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts St. Lawrence's Church, with its tower topped by a large golden ball, amidst trees and gravestones. The scene is set against a cloudy sky, evoking a sense of atmosphere and context.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of watercolour is characterized by loose, expressive brushstrokes and a predominantly brown and gray palette. The application of chiaroscuro creates depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer into the scene.

History & Provenance

This painting was part of the Recording Britain collection, a wartime project documenting British landscapes and buildings. Funded by the Pilgrim Trust and overseen by Sir Kenneth Clark, it aimed to preserve scenes of national identity during World War II.

The Old Church (now a barn), Leonard Stanley
The Old Church (now a barn), Leonard Stanley, Swan

Artist & collection

Artist

Seabrooke

This watercolor artist recorded the rolling hills and stone cottages of the Chilterns in the 1940s.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe?

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe was painted by Seabrooke in 1940.

Where can I see St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe?

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe?

St. Lawrence's Church, West Wycombe is associated with Naïve art.