Richard Wilson, 1713/4–1782, British, active in Italy (1750–56)
Title:
Dover
Date:
between 1746 and 1747
Materials & Techniques:
Oil on canvas
Dimensions:
17 x 21 1/2 inches (43.2 x 54.6 cm)
Credit Line:
Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection
Copyright Status:
Public Domain
Accession Number:
B1976.7.173
Gallery Label:
The site of Dover Castle has been significant since at least Roman times. Since its construction in the eleventh century, the structure has stood fast against invasions from France, even serving as an important military site during the Second World War. As the fortress located at the point closest to the Continent, its prominence in the British imagination is reflected in its nickname “the key of England.” Richard Wilson’s painting offers a view of Dover from afar that captures its elevated position in the surrounding landscape, overlooking the English Channel. Gallery label for Art in Focus: The British Castle - A Symbol in Stone (Yale Center for British Art, 2017-04-07 - 2017-08-06)
