Cloud Study with Tree

Cloud Study with Tree

Artwork Type: Painting

Artwork Description: In the heart of the Yale Center for British Art, a captivating oil on paper painting, "Cloud Study with Tree," awaits your gaze. Created in 1821 by the renowned English landscape painter John Constable, this artwork measures 17.1 x 30.5 centimeters, inviting you to delve into its intricate details.

Constable, a master of the Romantic era, captures the essence of the English countryside in this serene yet dramatic composition. The painting presents a solitary tree, its gnarled branches reaching towards the heavens, standing tall against a backdrop of turbulent clouds. The sky, rendered in shades of gray and blue, conveys a sense of impending storm, while the tree remains steadfast, symbolizing resilience and strength.

Constable's skillful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and atmosphere, drawing the viewer into the painting's narrative. The light from the sky reflects on the surface of the water, creating a sense of movement and energy that contrasts with the stillness of the tree.

This painting is not merely a depiction of a landscape; it is a testament to Constable's deep connection with nature and his ability to convey its emotional power. "Cloud Study with Tree" invites us to contemplate the beauty and resilience of the natural world, even in the face of adversity.

Artwork Date: 1821

Institution Name: Yale Center for British Art

Artwork Size: 17.1 x 30.5 cm

Author Name: John Constable

The painting is dominated by a cloudy sky awash in hues of pink, orange, and blue. The clouds are textured and appear to be moving quickly, suggesting a windy day. The lower third of the painting shows the top of a grove of trees in dark greens and browns. The brushstrokes are loose and expressive, capturing the movement of the clouds and the rustling of the leaves.