Artwork Info: A Boat passing a Lock

Buy print

Buy Painting

Buy Image

Send

A Boat passing a Lock

In this painting, a boat waits to enter a lock before moving upstream as threatening rainclouds pass overhead. John Constable captures a momentary weather condition, which animates the painting and dramatises the figure of the lock keeper with his red jacket silhouetted against the horizon. Constable was fascinated by cloud formations and the play of light on the landscape.The central figure, a man in a red waistcoat holding a large crowbar, is working the mechanism which will open the lower gate and let the water rush in from the lock into the river. Constable wrote to his friend a few years before making this work, “The sound of water escaping from mill-dams, etc., willows, old rotten planks, slimy posts, and brickwork, I love such things…”

john constable reeve (1929 – 2020)

Explore the serene landscapes & architectural studies of John Constable Reeve (1929-2020). British artist known for evocative scenes of Oxford, rural England & biblical themes.

Royal Academy of Arts (London, United Kingdom)

Explore the Royal Academy of Arts: A historic hub celebrating British art & design since 1768. Discover exhibitions, lectures, and a vibrant community fostering creativity across centuries.

About this artwork

Title: A Boat passing a Lock
Artist: john constable reeve
Year: 1826
Format: Landscape
Copyright status: Under copyright
Where to see it: Royal Academy of Arts
Color palette: Earthy
Perceived brightness: shadow

A Boat passing a Lock

john constable reeve (1929 – 2020)

Royal Academy of Arts (London, United Kingdom)

About this artwork

QR Code

Rankings

Art History

Reproductions & Services

About

A Boat passing a Lock

john constable reeve (1929 – 2020)

Royal Academy of Arts (London, United Kingdom)

About this artwork

QR Code

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get 3 Free Art Suggestions

Not Sure Where to Start?