Farm Buildings near Arbroath
Original painting, Watercolor on paper • Attributed to Meredith (signed lower left)
Style & Movement
British Post-Impressionist landscape, influenced by the Scottish School of water-colorists
Medium & Technique
Watercolor on paper, utilizing wet-on-dry washes for architectural definition and wet-on-wet techniques for the sky and fields. Some dry brushwork is visible in the foreground grasses.
Creation Period
Mid-20th century (c. 1940–1960)
Dimensions & Format
Horizontal landscape format, approximately 15 x 25 cm (estimated based on framing)
Subject Description
A rural landscape depicting a cluster of farm buildings, likely in Angus near Arbroath, Scotland. The composition features a foreground of harvested fields or stubble, leading to a complex of sandstone vernacular architecture with a conical-roofed doocot or tower and a white-washed cottage on the right. Dense trees form a backdrop under a pale blue sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The colors appear stable, though there is possible slight yellowing of the paper and minor acidic mount burn at the edges.
Estimated Market Value
$150 – $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 – $250 USD
Provenance History
Likely private collection, UK. Subject matter (Arbroath) suggests a regional Scottish origin or acquisition.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century British topographical watercolor painting. While the artist 'Meredith' may be a regional professional or skilled amateur, the work captures the unique vernacular architecture of the Scottish East Coast with topographical accuracy.
Notable Features
Prominent 'MEREDITH' signature in block capitals at the lower left. Distinctive depiction of the red sandstone common in Arbroath and the surrounding Angus area.
Condition Issues
Slight waviness (cockling) of the paper support; minor foxing or spotting in the sky area (top left); potential light fade from UV exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Remount using acid-free, museum-grade matting to prevent further mount burn. Glaze with UV-protective glass and keep away from direct sunlight.
Collector Notes
Arbroath