Ruin of St. Botolph’s Priory, Colchester c. 1809

John Constable's "Ruin of St. Botolph’s Priory, Colchester" is a graphite drawing created around 1809. The artwork depicts the crumbling remains of a medieval priory, showcasing Constable's early interest in capturing the effects of time and decay on architectural structures. The artist masterfully uses the technique of chiaroscuro, employing light and shadow to emphasize the weathered stones and create a sense of depth and atmosphere. The drawing's composition highlights the grandeur of the past, with the tall arched windows and the imposing facade of the priory, while also conveying a melancholic sense of loss and ruin.