J.M.W. Turner: Sketchbooks, Drawings and Watercolours

This study, evidently interrupted by mist or rain, is identified by the inscription verso as a view up the southern slopes of Cader Idris towards Lyn Cau, the volcanic lake close under the summit, famously depicted by Richard Wilson (1713–1782) in a composition of which the best-known version, now in the Tate Collection (N05596), was exhibited in 1774. Turner, however, avoids showing the lake itself, but suggests its presence beyond the ridge of scree from which the stream tumbles. A more explicit description of the place is given in the elaborated colour study, perhaps made later, on the basis of this drawing, on folio 45 recto (D01339; Turner Bequest XXXVIII 85). For a note on other sketches of Cader in the book see folio 46 recto (D01284; Turner Bequest XXXVIII 32).

Technical notes:

There appear to be rain-marks on the page, as noted above.

Verso:

Inscribed by Turner in pencil ‘Pool on the Summit of Cader Idris’; stamped in brown ink with Turner Bequest monogram.