Rothenstein became interested in landscape painting when he moved to Far Oakridge in Gloucestershire in 1912. This Wych Elm stood in the field in front of his house. It was one of his favourite subjects which he painted many times. Rothenstein was delighted to acquire this painting for the collection in 1940.
Wych Elm 1919 oil on canvas by William Rothenstein (1872-1945).
Empty landscape with a leafless tree standing at its centre, its branches fringed with pink. Beyond lie snow-covered hills.
Rothenstein lived at Far Oakridge, Gloucestershire from 1912 and developed an interest in landscape painting. This tree was one of his favourites and he painted it many times at different seasons. It stood in a field in front of his house. In a letter dated 23.7.39 he wrote regarding its acquisition for Tullie House; 'My painting of the wych elm, winter. I am the more pleased since this is one of my favourite subjects. I have painted this tree many times. It stood in a field opposite our old house here, and I watched it during each season of the year, morning and evening, for some 25 years. Two years ago it was blown down by a great storm; but it still remains on its side attached to one of its roots and grows into full leaf, for myself and my wife who loved it is a tragic site.'
There are these inscriptions on the exhibit:
This exhibit is currently on display. Ref CALMG : 1940.20.1
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery collection, purchased by Sir William Rothenstein 1940
Image © Courtesy of the Estate of Sir William Rothenstein / The Bridgeman Art Library
Click here to view exhibitions designed for Secondary school students and their teachers.
Jonathan Jones: The late artist's unfinished replica of his childhood home, with its dark underground retreat, suggests parallels with his troubled life
Published on 16/05/2012
David Shariatmadari: A report by Riba suggests what we want from our homes – big, light-filled spaces – we just don't get. But in the current economic climate, what can architects do about it?
Published on 16/05/2012
Exhibition of images of Elizabeth II, which has already visited Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff, arrives in capital
Published on 16/05/2012
Your comments