Art Funded by you

Study for the Laidley Worm

Walter Crane, c. 1880

The Whitworth, Manchester

This watercolour is a study for an oil painting by the artist of 1881, The Laidley Worm of Spindleston Heugh. The subject is taken from a Northumberland legend which tells of a princess transformed into a serpent, only restored to her true form by a brotherly kiss. The choice of subject reflects the taste of the Pre-Raphaelites, who were an influence on Crane. The drawing is a finished study but differs from the oil painting and shows the development of the composition. It also contains an element of landscape painting, with a view of Bamburgh Castle in the distance on the right.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Study for the Laidley Worm, c. 1880

Date supported

2006

Medium and material

Pen & brown ink & brown watercolour wash heightened with white

Dimensions

14.9 x 44.2 cm

Grant

2000

Total cost

8000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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