Turner had visited the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen on his first visit to Switzerland and they became one of his favourite subjects. He returned to them and made several studies, some of which were worked up into larger paintings. For this study he prepared the paper with a wash of grey before applying other colours and then rubbed and scraped into the surface to achieve the effects of spray and moisture laden air. He conveyed the scale of the Falls by including the figures in the boats. Made in 1841, this is one of three studies of the subject in the Scottish National Gallery's collection.
Joseph Mallord William Turner (English, 1775 - 1851)
Turner transformed the art of landscape painting in Britain. From detailed topographical studies to expansive, atmospheric vistas his works celebrate the diversity and emotive power of nature. He was born in Covent Garden, the son of a barber, and exhibited his earliest sketches in his father's shop before studying at the Royal Academy Schools. Turner became the youngest ever full member of the Royal Academy in 1802. His experimental use of watercolour and oils achieved stunning effects, attracting contemporary criticism and praise. Turner's admiration of past masters, above all Claude Lorraine, and the numerous sketches made on many tours in Britain and abroad, provided the basis for his 'sublime' land and seascapes.
