A distant view of Derry through a bank of wild flowers

This captivating watercolour by the Irish artist Andrew Nicholl is unusual in combining a minutely detailed floral still life with an expansive topographical panorama. It offers an almost worm’s-eye view of a clump of colourful wildflowers – poppies, white and yellow daisies, blue veronica – growing by the side of a road. The placement of foliage and flowers has been carefully contrived to allow deep glimpses of the background landscape. The city of Derry is rendered in tiny detail, appearing almost incidental in the left distance. The view includes the city’s first bridge across the River Foyle, built in 1791. The presence of shipping reflects the interest of trade and Derry’s importance as an emigration port.