An Overshot Mill in Wales

James Ward was a great colourist, a highly skilled draughtsman, printmaker and was also an outstanding animal painter. He is viewed as one of the leading artists of the British Romantic movement.

As can be seen in this work of Aberdulais Mill which is situated on the River Dulais, Aberdulais near Neath in South Wales he was a master in the portrayal of light. His attention to detail in this work is beyond compare and his great expertise in painting the animal form is plain to see.

Aberdulais Mill drew a number of artists to record its picturesque setting including the great artist J.M.W. Turner in 1796. Since 1584 power had been drawn from this waterfall when it was used in the manufacturing of copper which ceased in the 17th century. It was later used for corn-milling and later in the production of tinplate works.