This late 18th-century oil painting by British artist W Walker depicts a Dutch landscape with cattle and castle ruins.

The lazy glow of the evening sun illuminates the distant lowlands as dazed cows rest in the shade of a crooked tree. Two stout shepherds are deep in conversation while a third figure leans atop a ruined castle.

This pastoral idyll appeals to romantic sensibilities and captures a Wordworthian spirit. At the time, landscape painting in Britain was viewed with scepticism unless imbued with a sense of timeless poetry. Hence, W Walker looked back towards the Dutch masters of yesteryear for appropriate inspiration.

Here, he’s drawing the inquisitive mind towards the golden horizon, encouraging us to wander under leafy boughs. A simpler time, portrayed as such, nature in its abundant glory.

Held within a period gilt frame with foliate.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 18½” x 15½” / 47cm x 39cm
Year of creation: c. 1790
Labels & Inscriptions: Plaque with title and artist. Partially visible supplier’s stamp on reverse.
Condition: Craquelure throughout but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.