This early 20th-century watercolour by British artist Mary Vernon Morgan (1846-1927) depicts an abundant display of flora nestled into an upland landscape.
Set before a jagged rock, a myriad of wildflowers bloom in beauteous colours. Perhaps oxeye daisies, ragwort, wild carrot and dock. A celebration of nature’s vibrancy amid rugged English scenery.
With a deft touch and a passion for decorative ensembles, Morgan’s rendering is both captivating and tender. Her love of British flora probably stems from rural explorations as a child - accompanying her father on sketching trips - gathering baskets of seasonal delights before returning home to arrange them. It’s easy to imagine her pressing flowers into a scrapbook, adding notes and drawing.
Unlike many of her peers, Morgan painted for pleasure, seemingly unaffected by academic ideals and precepts. Her compositions often include a scenic background to indicate where the flora may naturally reside. With the arrangements orchestrated to heighten their dazzling allure. Note the inclusion of small pearl-bordered fritillary butterflies, painted with exquisite details.
Held within a later frame and glazed.
Medium: Watercolour with bodycolour on paper laid on canvas
Overall size: 28½” x 38½” / 73cm x 98cm
Year of creation: c. 1900
Labels & Inscriptions: Name plaque lower middle.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some wear including losses.
Mary Vernon Morgan was taught by her father William Henry Vernon (1820-1909). She exhibited at the Royal Academy, the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists and elsewhere.
Learn more about Mary Vernon Morgan ARBSA 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.
