Henry Bright (England, 1810-1873)
‘Dungeon Ghyll, Cumberland’
Norwich School, watercolour
(sight) 29 ½” high x 21 ½” wide
(framed) 33 ½” high x 25 ½” wide
Notes: The Norwich School often found its dedication to nature socially at odds with the contrivances of the picturesque but whatever one’s preference the sublimity of Dungeon Ghyll, Cumberland cannot be denied. Here Henry Bright has offered this to the viewer in a careful composition that emphasizes the magnitude of the situation through the use of light, shadow, perspective, motion and scale. Masterfully executed the dramatic location is presented in an equally large format, 29 ½” high x 21 ½” wide.
Markings: signed lower left, H. Bright.
Condition: Excellent Condition.
For Accuracy: the frame may show the lightest signs of wear at the extremities as expected. The colour is bright and it is offered framed behind glaze and ready for display.
Artist Biography: Henry Bright was one of the most talented artists from the second generation of the Norwich school and was a pupil of both Alfred Stannard and John Sell Cotman although his work should be viewed in a wider context than purely that of the Norwich school. Settling in London for many years, Bright established himself as a successful painter and teacher, receiving commissions from many rich and fashionable patrons, with one work being purchased by Queen Victoria.
He developed strong friendships with the leading artists of the day including J. M. W. Turner and David Cox. Also he collaborated with artists such as John Frederick Herring and William Shayer, generally contributing the landscape elements to the paintings. An incredible draftsman and a master at depicting the effects of sunlight and shadow, Bright managed to find beauty and interest in almost any subject. His body of work is very diverse, ranging from intricate pencil drawings of a tree stump or rock formation to dramatic sunsets along the Rhine. However, it was for his water-colours he obtained most credit. (Source: Sothebys.com; Norwich School of Painting)
