Morpeth Bridge c. 1796

drawing, watercolor

drawing

water colours

incomplete sketchy

possibly oil pastel

oil painting

watercolor

england

underpainting

painting painterly

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

mixed medium

watercolor

"Morpeth Bridge" is a watercolor painting by Thomas Girtin, created around 1796. It depicts a tranquil scene of a bridge crossing a river, with charming buildings lining the banks. The composition is characterized by a soft, atmospheric quality, with delicate brushstrokes and a muted color palette. The reflection of the bridge in the water creates a sense of symmetry and stillness, adding depth to the scene. Girtin's work is a prime example of the Romantic movement in art, which emphasized nature, emotion, and the sublime. This artwork showcases his talent for capturing the beauty of the English countryside.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Built in the 1200s, Morpeth Bridge was the crossing point of the River Wansbeck—thus a strategically important asset on the main route between Newcastle and Edinburgh. The view is taken looking downstream to the east. The north and south abutments and the center pier still survive, but in 1835 the arches were destroyed when a larger bridge was built a stone’s throw further downstream. Beyond the north (left) end of the bridge, we see the arched tower of a chantry chapel built in 1296. Besides praying for the chapel’s patron, the priest collected the bridge tolls. This drawing is traditionally attributed to Thomas Girtin, but it may be a copy after his work. A closely related watercolor is in the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle. Is Mia’s a copy or was the artist a forerunner to Claude Monet and the Impressionists, exploring the effects of different lighting upon the landscape'