Joseph Mallord William Turner

Durham Cathedral is indicated in outline only to the north-east across the Wear from the woods which still line the west bank. There are similar views in the 1801 Helmsley sketchbook (Tate D02483, D02484, D02495, D02496; Turner Bequest LIII 15a–16, 21a–22). ‘Durham’ is written on the left, apparently transcribed from a rectangular sign or stone which seems to be indicated from a little further back in a slighter sketch on folio 9 (D12328).

This is one of a continuous run of drawings of Durham, beginning on folio 6 recto (D12325) and concluding on folio 14 recto (D12334), with one further sketch on folio 76 verso (D12414). For Turner’s other visits to the city, see the entry for D12325, which also discusses later colour sketches and the Picturesque Views in England and Wales watercolour showing the cathedral from this direction.

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