Lincoln Cathedral from Brayford Pool c. 1808

David Cox created this watercolor, 'Lincoln Cathedral from Brayford Pool', using pigments that were relatively inexpensive and easy to handle. The very nature of watercolor—its fluidity, its capacity for blending, and the way it invites a certain looseness of handling—has greatly influenced the appearance of this work. These paints, applied with soft brushes, allow Cox to capture the atmospheric effects of light and distance. There is a sense of the ephemeral here, a world in flux. Considered in its time as a ‘minor’ medium, watercolor was often associated with amateurism, or with preparatory sketches. Yet, this belies the sheer skill required to master the technique. The light washes and controlled bleeds demand dexterity and confidence. Cox's choice of such a fluid medium enhances the romantic and picturesque qualities of the scene. In this way, materials, making, and context are key to understanding this wonderful artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.