Bettws-y-Coed 1859

David Cox painted this watercolour titled 'Bettws-y-Coed', capturing a scene in Wales, a popular destination for artists and tourists in the 19th century. Cox, emerging from a working-class background, found success in a society undergoing rapid industrialisation and urbanisation. His choice to depict the Welsh landscape reflects a broader cultural interest in the rural and 'picturesque' as a retreat from the pressures of modern life. Landscape paintings gained appeal as symbols of national identity and stability during times of social change. The artwork offers a familiar, yet idealised version of nature. While Cox never explicitly commented on political issues, his art subtly promotes the values of his time. This painting reminds us of the intertwined relationship between art, identity, and the ever-changing social landscapes that shape our perceptions.