Wooded Landscape (likely near Lamorna Valley)
Painting on paper • Samuel John 'Lamorna' Birch (1869–1955)
Style & Movement
Newlyn School (Second generation) / Late Impressionist Landscape
Medium & Technique
Watercolor with pencil underdrawing and bodycolor; features wet-on-wet technique and dry brush textural effects
Creation Period
1946
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 35 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A vertical composition depicting a dense woodland or valley scene. Sunlight filters through tall, slender tree trunks, likely birches or beeches, casting shadows across a forest floor or path. The work captures the atmospheric light and lush vegetation characteristic of the Cornish landscape.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing typical signs of age-related toning
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$600 - $1,200 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a UK gallery or private estate; attribution supported by owner's data and visible signature style bottom left
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the artist's late career. Birch was a leading figure in the Lamorna group of the Newlyn School. This piece demonstrates his enduring obsession with the interplay of light and water/foliage in the West Country.
Notable Features
Features the artist's signature 'S.J. Lamorna Birch' and the date '1946' in the lower left corner. The color palette is typical of his post-war work, utilizing muted teals, earthy ochres, and soft purples.
Condition Issues
Minor foxing spots/discoloration in the upper right sky area; slight acidity from the original mount causing edge darkening (mat burn)
Conservation Recommendations
Reframing using acid-free museum-grade mount board and UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent further fading and acidification
Collector Notes
Lamorna Birch 1946