Works of Samuel Palmer

Samuel Palmer's art is a discovery of the 20th century, and his influence on English painters has made him one of the most popular. The Ashmolean Museum's collection of paintings, drawings, watercolors, and etchings is the most important in the world, especially in the early works of the Shoreham period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Ashmolean Museum

Samuel Palmer's art is a remarkable discovery of the 20th century. While he exhibited widely during his lifetime and found buyers for some of his watercolours and etchings, it was not until the retrospective exhibition held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1926 that the general public gained access to the deeply personal world of Palmer's early years at Shoreham. Since then, his influence on a generation of English painters, including Nash, Sutherland, John Piper, and F.L. Griggs, the publications of Geoffrey Grigson, Raymond Lister, and others, have solidified his status as one of the most celebrated English artists of all time.

The collection of paintings, drawings, watercolours, and etchings by Samuel Palmer in the Ashmolean Museum is truly extraordinary. It is especially rich in the early works of the Shoreham period, from c. 1824 to 1835. Notably, the museum houses the haunting self-portrait and a unique group of six sepia drawings from 1825, which capture the visionary landscape at its most intense. These early pieces showcase Palmer's exceptional talent and his unique perspective on the world, making them invaluable treasures of art history.

Palmer's influence extends beyond his own time. His work has inspired countless artists and art enthusiasts, and his legacy continues to be felt in the art world today. The retrospective exhibition held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1926 marked a significant milestone in his recognition and appreciation, and it paved the way for his enduring reputation as a visionary artist.

In conclusion, Samuel Palmer's art is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring impact of artistic vision. His discovery of the 20th century has left an indelible mark on the art world, and his collection in the Ashmolean Museum is a treasure trove of his remarkable works. Palmer's influence on a generation of English painters and his legacy as a visionary artist will continue to inspire and captivate future generations.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 199 x 263 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910807460