Turner greatly admired the work of Scotland’s most famous living writer, Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832), and they collaborated on several publishing projects. Turner stayed with Scott at his country house, Abbotsford, near Melrose in the Scottish Borders, in 1831. He sketched the house and grounds, including Rhymer’s Glen. This woodland dell was Scott’s favourite place for contemplation and creativity. The dappled golden light and tumbling stream here create a magical sense of place. Turner painted this watercolour after Scott’s death in 1832 and the walking stick propped against the bench suggests both his presence and his loss.