This charming mid-19th-century oil painting by British artist Alfred Vickers (1786-1868) depicts a picturesque scene on the River Conwy, North Wales.
Several cattle graze alongside this iconic meandering waterway. Their forms deftly rendered by an experienced hand. On either side, the peaks rise, culminating in a hazy array of gentle tints. A rustic cottage sits quietly amid overgrown foliage.
This idyllic vision of rural life was captured by an artist who adored the British countryside. Inspired by Constable, Vickers studied nature’s various moods with careful observation, often working outside. His short brushstrokes and deftness with colour are comparable to some of the French plein-air painters of the mid-19th century. A subject we’ve discussed in an essay.
However, Vickers was earlier than many who adopted this style and, as such, was overlooked by the critics who favoured the finer Victorian painters. Despite exhibiting over 60 times at the Royal Academy, he died in relative obscurity. It’s safe to say that if he worked in France during this period he’d be celebrated as a pioneer.
Signed/dated lower right and held within a later frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 35” x 26” / 89cm x 66cm
Year of creation: 1854
Labels & Inscriptions: Gallery label on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, England.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Canvas relined. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £10,000
Alfred Vickers
Alfred Vickers was predominantly self-taught and exhibited 62 times at the Royal Academy. His works are held in numerous public collections including at The Wilson, Cheltenham, Reading Museum, Leicester Museum, The National Trust, Sheffield Museum, Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Guildhall Art Gallery, Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Canterbury Museum, and Nottingham City Museum.
Learn more about Alfred Vickers in our directory.