David Cox (1783-1859)

David Cox

Farmer on Horseback Passing a Windmill

England or Wales, probably 1810-50

Watercolour

28.3 x 40 cm

Birds circle the calm skies as a farmer slowly rides his horse past a windmill.

The low horizon and large sky is typical of Cox’s preoccupation with depicting changeable weather and atmosphere. He returned to the theme of the travelling farmer numerous times. The soft greens and blues together with a careful balancing of the central figure with the windmill create a peaceful scene. Windmills were landmarks for travellers, and the prominence of the example in this composition could signify safe travel.

Gifted 2015 (No. 2015.6)

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