About this artwork

Roger Fenton was strongly influenced by Sir Walter Scott in the choice of his subject matter in Scotland. Melrose Abbey was made famous by Scott's 'The Lay of the Last Minstrel' although there is a certain irony in the popular photography of the subject. The verse recommends viewing the ruin by pale moonlight whereas pictures of it were normally taken in bright sunlight as it is quite obvious from this photograph.

Updated before 2020

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Roger Fenton

Roger Fenton