Somerset Headland 

Harry Phelan Gibb painted this landscape of the Somerset coast in England, presumably in the early 20th century. It depicts sheep walking on the narrow path along the headland; but more than a snapshot of rural life, it reflects a broader interest in the British landscape during a time of rapid industrialisation and urban expansion. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a rise of the Arts and Crafts movement, and a renewed appreciation for the countryside. Artists often idealised rural landscapes, contrasting them with the perceived chaos and moral decay of modern cities. As such, we might interpret this image of sheep in an empty landscape as an image of social critique. To fully appreciate this painting, we might consider exhibition records, sales figures, and critical reviews from the period. We might also consider who the image was for. Was it intended for a private collector or for public display? Understanding the social and institutional context helps us better understand how the artwork functioned within its own time.