The Entrance to Chepstow Castle 1776

Paul Sandby’s 1776 aquatint print “The Entrance to Chepstow Castle” depicts the entrance to the castle, a popular 18th-century tourist attraction. The print displays Sandby's talent for depicting the rugged beauty of the Welsh landscape. The towering castle ruins are a prominent feature of the composition, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush trees. The viewer's eye is drawn to the foreground by a cart and horses entering the castle grounds. The composition is enhanced by Sandby’s use of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this work as part of its impressive collection.