This rugged early 20th-century gouache by British artist John Falconar Slater (1857-1937) depicts rapid whitewater amid an upland scenery in Northumberland, England.
As the fierce froth of a tumbling river cascades over jagged rocks, the sound is near-audible. A day sketching in the mist-covered hills enlivened by a continuous 'whoosh'. This was Slater’s England - the breathtaking abundance of the rugged North East. He was a master of inclement weather, braving the elements to render a storm or a chilly day battered by wind.
In an interview from his Newcastle studio, John Falconar Slater proclaimed “I am weather and waterproof from head to foot. That way I can stand the roughest gale” and it was this determination that led to many of his finest works.
The view here is possibly somewhere in The Cheviots - a range of rolling hills, which straddle the Anglo-Scottish border. The River Coquet winds through them - at times, quiet and tranquil, at others, wild and uncompromising.
Signed mid-right and held within a gilt frame.
Medium: Gouache on paper
Overall size: 28½” x 22” / 72cm x 56cm
Year of creation: c. 1910
Condition: Artwork presents well. Minor mark on the mount.
Artist’s auction maximum: £4,200
Our reference: BRV1488
British artist John Falconar Slater is predominantly known for his rugged impressionist landscapes, which encapsulate nature in all its various guises. He exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and his works are held in numerous public collections.
Learn more about John Falconar Slater in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
