Ruin behind the Free School, Thetford, Suffolk 1818

John Sell Cotman's "Ruin behind the Free School, Thetford, Suffolk" is a 1818 drawing of a crumbling structure. The artist is known for his romantic landscapes that often feature ruins, evoking a sense of history and the passage of time. The drawing depicts the remnants of a building, possibly a church or abbey, with broken arches and crumbling walls, showcasing the effects of decay. The use of delicate lines and shading creates a sense of depth and light, while the presence of birds in the sky further enhances the melancholic atmosphere. This drawing exemplifies Cotman's skill in capturing the beauty of ruins and their historical significance.