The discovery of Paris

Interesting exhibition at the Wallace Collection of 19th century watercolours of Paris by British artists.

In the brief periods of peace in the Napoleonic wars and after Waterloo it was possible for British artists to visit Paris and a demand for views of the city grew up. Some of these pictures were done for pleasure, some to sell and some to be published in books.

It was interesting to see works in sketch, finished water colour and printed form such as a selection of Turners. Also to compare the different styles of watercolours such as Turners ethereal smoky finish compared to the detailed polished finish of Thomas Shotter Boys.

The works gave a picture of a city about to change with the town planning of Haussmann but also showed views of the city which are still being painted by artists today.

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