John Constable

John Constable (1776-1837) was a British landscape painter who has left an indelible mark on the history of Western Art.

Born in June 1776 in East Bergholt, Suffolk, Constable was the son of a prosperous corn merchant.  His early years in the picturesque countryside of Suffolk profoundly influenced his artistic vision.

Constable is best known for his idyllic and naturalistic landscapes, capturing the beauty of rural England with an unprecedented level of detail and atmospheric effect.

Unlike many of his contemporaries, who often turned to classical themes and Italian scenery, Constable remained dedicated to painting the English landscape, particularly around his home in Suffolk and later in Hampstead, London.

One of Constable’s most famous works is 'The Hay Wain' (1821), depicting a rural scene on the River Stour between Suffolk and Essex. This painting exemplifies his ability to convey the tranquillity and grandeur of the English countryside.

His meticulous attention to light, weather, and natural forms brought a new level of realism and emotional depth to landscape painting.

Constable's technique was revolutionary for its time. He often painted in the open air, creating oil sketches that captured the changing effects of light and weather. These studies formed the basis of his larger studio works.  His innovative use of colour and texture, especially his portrayal of skies, with their dynamic clouds and atmospheric effects, distinguished his work from others.

Despite his significant contributions, Constable struggled for recognition in his lifetime.  He exhibited at the Royal Academy but faced competition from other artists and public tastes that favoured more classical and exotic subjects.

It wasn't until later in his career, particularly after his works were well-received in France, that he gained wider acclaim.

The portrait of John Constable, above, was painted by Ramsay Renaigle