View of a Colliery at the Edge of a Town 1840s

John Ruskin's "View of a Colliery at the Edge of a Town" (1840s) is a watercolor on paper that depicts a colliery at the edge of a town. Ruskin was a prominent art critic, writer, and social commentator who was known for his advocacy for the beauty of nature and the social conditions of the working class. This artwork is characteristic of his early work, and its depiction of an industrial landscape reflects the changing social and economic conditions of the 19th century. This particular watercolor features a detailed and realistic portrayal of the industrial complex and its surroundings, including a hilltop, a building with a tall spire, and a single bare tree in the foreground. The use of light and shadow contributes to the sense of depth and space, while the subtle use of color creates a sense of atmospheric realism. The artwork's inscription includes Ruskin's signature and a date in pencil. This piece is held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY.