Joseph Mallord William Turner

This series of views, executed in crisp and nimble line, depicts the Rhine valley and the settlements of Hammerstein, Andernach, and Rheineck (see Tate D19836, D19838; Turner Bequest CCXVI 143, 144). The drawings are produced with the sketchbook turned upside down. Hammerstein is pictured in the two uppermost prospects which clearly show the ruins of its castle, situated in a strategic position on the crest of rock. Andernach is suggested cursorily in the second view of Hammerstein. The central and lowermost views are of the Burg Rheineck, another medieval feudal seat that dominates a village of the same name. The rear view gives the best impression of the castle: its dilapidated, ivy-mantled towers and chapel perched on the very edge of the cliff (see also Tate D12660, D12792–D12793, D12858–D12859; Turner Bequest CLIX 82, CLX 47a–48, 80a–81). A fleet of tall sailing boats can also be seen, gliding across the waters beneath the ancient castle.