The Quay, Dieppe

Artist Christopher Wood (Knowsley, England, 1901 - 1930)

Date1929

Mediumoil on board

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 41.5 cm, Width: 56.2 cm
Frame: Height: 64.2 cm, Width: 79.1 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1938 with income from the Murray Fund.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG003029

Keywords

About MeThis work by Christopher Wood depicts the harbour of the French town of Dieppe. Wood presents a more sophisticated form of the rough surfaces, directedness and colour scheme introduced by the highly influential, yet unprofessional artist, Alfred Wallis. Dieppe, which attracted many artists as well as society's elite, was Wood's favourite painting site for the last fifteen months of his life, as he explained, "[Dieppe brought] complete happiness. I have never known it before." The seaside town offered a pleasant alternative to the bohemian lifestyle that Wood led in Paris, allowing him to explore the picturesque scenery through his painting.

A close reading of 'The Quay, Dieppe' may reveal a deeper understanding of Wood's personality. His boughts with depression and addiction to opium coupled with a series of failed relationships may have influenced the use of a dark, gloomy colour scheme that conveys a sense of loneliness and abandonment. In recent times, Wood's life and the events leading up to his premature death have brought much attention (Wood died at the age of 29 in a confused state, falling under a train at Salisbury station).

Adopted by Irena Boettcher.

To find out how to 'Adopt an Artwork' please email AAGMSupport-Us@aberdeencity.gov.uk
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The dark gloomy colour scheme perhaps reflects Wood’s personal problems. Following bouts of depression and addiction, he died aged 29 falling under a train.

Exhibitions

Shoreline