This 19th-century watercolour by British artist James George Philp (1816-1885) depicts a tranquil view on the River Derwent in Derbyshire.
Meandering between craggy tree-lined banks, the enchanting Derwent shimmers amid Summertime bliss. A bright channel of near white offset by the darker tones of abundant reflected foliage. On the right, two young friends rest upon the rocks, with trousers rolled up ahead of dangling legs.
Philp admired the effects of light on water and spent countless hours studying its radiant displays. Living predominantly in Falmouth, Cornwall, he was raised by the sea and afforded ample opportunity to study from nature. Here, working in picturesque Derbyshire, it’s no surprise that he’s selected a view of an elegant river. Once again turning his brush to the scenic delights of Britain’s silvery waterways.
Signed lower right and held within a gilt frame.
Medium: Watercolour on paper
Overall size: 29½” x 22½” / 75cm x 57cm
Year of creation: c. 1870
Labels & Inscriptions: Label on the reverse with title.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Small imperfections in the original glass. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £3,000
Our reference: BRV1444
James George Philp exhibited extensively including at the Royal Academy and he was a member of the National Watercolor Society, the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. He’s represented in the Government Art Collection, Royal Collection Trust, and museums at Greenwich, Falmouth, Maidstone, Ulster, and Brighton & Hove.
Learn more about James George Philp 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.
