Vauxhall Bridge (ca. 1816)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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More about this artwork
Dive into the serene landscape of John Varley's painting, "Vauxhall Bridge," circa 1816. At first glance, this piece captures an idyllic, pastoral scene by the riverside, offering viewers a glimpse into early 19th-century life near the Thames. The artwork beautifully illustrates Vauxhall Bridge in the background, its graceful arches spanning the calm river below, exemplifying the engineering marvels of the era.Foregrounded in Varley's composition are majestic, leafy trees that anchor the scene and draw your eye towards the subtle yet vibrant activities unfolding on the riverbank. Here, figures—possibly a family—are depicted in a casual, peaceful moment, suggesting a common scene of leisure or everyday life during that period. A dog stretches lazily nearby, adding to the calmness of the setting. To the right, docked boats hint at the ongoing movement and trade that the river facilitated, contrasting with the otherwise tranquil setting.The use of light and shadow, combined with the soft, earthy palette, creates an atmosphere of timeless calm, making "Vauxhall Bridge" not just a historical representation but also a peaceful retreat into nature and human connection.
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John Varley was an English watercolour painter and astrologer, and a close friend of William Blake. They collaborated in 1819–1820 on the book Visionary Heads, written by Varley and illustrated by Blake. He was the elder brother of a family of artists: Cornelius Varley, William Fleetwood Varley, and Elizabeth, who married the painter William Mulready.