The scene, depicted at midday, illustrates lines 69-80 of John Milton's poem 'L'Allegro'. It belongs to a set of eight works illustrating Miltons' 'L'Allegro' and 'Il Penseroso', conceived as four pairs depicting the times of the day. Palmer always had a special affection for these poems. The scene, although imaginary, combines reminiscences of Shoreham, Naples and the Italian landscape in general. This work was acquired with assistance from the Wolfson Foundation.
More information
Title of artwork, date
The Prospect, 1881
Date supported
2005
Medium and material
Watercolour & bodycolour on London board
Dimensions
50 x 79.4 cm
Grant
75000
Total cost
245000
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