This 19th-century watercolour by English artist Edgar John Varley (1839-1888) depicts a rural scene with thatched cottages, chickens, and family.
Laying upon a homespun bridge, a young boy holds a makeshift fishing rod towards a trickling stream. His sister, behind him, stands in a doorway surrounded by climbing ivy. Their cottage, clad in timber, is partially bereft of thatch and peers through thick foliage. It’s a picture of rural bliss under a Summer sky - yet tinged with the realities of hardship for young working families.
On a country track opposite, their mother discusses recent events with a passing friend. Perhaps exchanging goods or making arrangements - note the basket and jug by her feet. While beyond them, a weary figure harvests crops in a field abundant with cabbages. A cat looks on.
Varley adored the British countryside. An amiable man, he travelled widely to sketch from nature and track down picturesque scenes. This is a good example of his work and the details are quite exquisite.
Signed/dated in the lower right and housed in a later frame.
Medium: Watercolour on paper
Overall size: 19½” x 17” / 50cm x 43cm
Year of creation: 1878
Labels & Inscriptions: Gallery label on reverse.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £2,000
Edgar John Varley was born into a successful family of artists. His works are held in various public collections including at the V&A and Met Museum.
Learn more about Edgar John Varley 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 often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
