Windermere from Wansfell

Better known today for his poetry and nonsense rhymes, Edward Lear was also an accomplished draughtsman and illustrator.

Most of Lear’s Lake District watercolours date from 1836 or 1837, making this a rare late example. In his late work, Lear often sketched in pencil in the countryside before adding ink and colour washes in the studio. This scene is a superb example of his mature style, displaying clarity of line and delicate colouring.