Dunnottar Castle

Artist John Piper (Epsom, England, 1903 - 1992)

Date1984

Mediumwatercolour, ink and crayon on paper

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 56 cm, Width: 78.4 cm
Frame: Height: 82.5 cm, Width: 102.8 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1986 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.

LocationOn Display - Gallery 07

Object numberABDAG007489

Keywords

About MeDunnottar Castle sits in a dramatic location on the Kincardineshire coastline just south of Stonehaven. There has been a fortress on this site since the 12th century and it was the setting for many important historical events - Cromwell's men laid siege in 1651-2 but before the siege was broken the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish crown jewels, were smuggled out and removed to a place of safety.

John Piper has given this ancient place a modern treatment. He painted this view of Dunnottar in the 1980s and although he has used watercolours, he has used strong colours to dramatic effect. The swirling brush-strokes suggest the movement of wind and sea.

More About Me

Collections Wall

This painting focusses on the bright colours of the hill and the swirling blue sky and green sea. Dunnottar Castle looks drab and insignificant in comparison!

Exhibitions

Gallery 07 - Exploring Art