Study of clouds (recto). Study of an elder bush by a fence (verso)

David Cox British

Not on view

Groundbreaking scientific analysis of clouds in the early nineteenth century encouraged artists to work outdoors and examine actual forms rather than relying on studio models. A leading British landscapist, Cox was known for his brilliance at conveying transient weather effects. Here he follows the pioneering lead of John Constable, who made oil-on-paper sky studies at Hampstead in the summer of 1821. Taking advantage of the expressive possibilities of watercolor, Cox manipulates translucent layers to describe summer clouds with dark undersides that hint at rain.

Study of clouds (recto). Study of an elder bush by a fence (verso), David Cox (British, Birmingham 1783–1859 Harborne, near Birmingham), Watercolor (recto); watercolor and graphite (verso)

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