Art Funded by you

1) New Weir on the River Wye; 2) Coldwell on the River Wye

Michael Angelo Rooker, c. 1789

These watercolours show classic topographical views in the lower Wye Valley by a significant English watercolourist and also contain historical and industrial detail. The New Weir view depicts barges on the river pulled by teams of men known as bowhauliers, and the iron forge at Symond's Yat. It is an unusual view downstream over the leat and the weir. The Coldwell picture shows the river upstream from New Weir, looking towards Symond's Yat Rock, the high promontory in the centre. The Wye Valley became a popular destination for artists and tourists exploring the British landscape in the wake of William Gilpin's Observations on the River Wye of 1773, setting out his theory of 'picturesque beauty'. Monmouth was a major beneficiary of the 'Wye Tour' as the mid-point on the two-day journey from Ross to Chepstow.

More information

Title of artwork, date

1) New Weir on the River Wye; 2) Coldwell on the River Wye, c. 1789

Date supported

2006

Medium and material

Watercolour over pencil on paper

Dimensions

1) 30.2 x 48.2 cm; 2) 30.2 x 48 cm

Grant

4500

Total cost

13000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

Art Funded by you FAQs

Why is this object record marked 'archive'?
Where can I see this work of art? Is it on display?
What is Art Fund's purpose?
How is Art Fund funded?
What type of funding do you offer?
What does the acquisition grants programme support and who can apply?
How many works of art has Art Fund helped museums to acquire?
I’m a curator/researcher/arts professional and would like to find out more about this work, how do I get in touch?
I’m a journalist and would like to contact Art Fund about this work, how do I get in touch?
I would like to donate a work of art to a museum. What do I need to do?
I'd like to leave a gift to Art Fund in my will. How can I do this?

Contact us

If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.