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'Now for the Painter' (Rope) - Passengers Going on Board
painting
Turner, Joseph Mallord William
Europe, United Kingdom, England
1827
1947.507
First floor: Early 19th Century
oil
174.3 x 223.5 cm
'Now for the Painter' (Rope)
- Passengers Going on Board 1827
Joseph Mallord William Turner 1775-1851
Oil on canvas
In nautical terms a 'painter' is a boat rope.
Turner's title makes a play on the word
at the expense of another artist, Clarkson Stanfield.
The latter had failed to complete a 'painter' subject
in time for the Royal Academy exhibition of 1826.
The landscape of Calais is seen in the background;
Turner had recently returned from the French port
following a sketching tour of the Loire valley.
The dark figure raising his arm in the main boat
is possibly a self-portrait.
Turner emphasises human vulnerability
through turbulent seas and swaying boats,
a recurring Romantic theme throughout his career.
Gift of FJ Nettlefold 1947.507
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