A House, West Humble Lane, Norbury, Surrey 1806

Cornelius Varley created 'A House, West Humble Lane, Norbury, Surrey' using watercolor on paper. The drawing presents a humble dwelling, its form softened by the delicate washes of color and the organic overgrowth of vines. Varley employs a muted palette, primarily using grays and browns, which creates a sense of quietude and nostalgia. The composition centers on the house, emphasizing its architectural form against the backdrop of a hazy landscape. This focus highlights the structure's relationship to its environment, blurring the boundaries between the man-made and the natural. Varley's approach aligns with broader artistic concerns of his time, such as the picturesque movement. The picturesque sought to capture the beauty of untamed nature and the charm of rural scenes. 'A House, West Humble Lane' is a cultural artifact that allows us to reflect on changing attitudes towards nature, landscape and the built environment.