After J. M. W. Turner, Quiet Hills of Berkshire, Newbury from Speen Hill, 1805, Print

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Quiet hills of berkshire — newbury from speen hill, turner & byrne 1805 this atmospheric early-19th-century english landscape presents a … Read more Quiet hills of berkshire — newbury from speen hill, turner & byrne 1805 this atmospheric early-19th-century english landscape presents a pastoral view of newbury as seen from speen hill, looking across gently rolling countryside toward the town and its church towers in the distance. In the foreground, rural figures rest beside a winding road, while grazing sheep animate the middle ground, reinforcing the quiet rhythms of agricultural life. A broad, cloud-filled sky dominates the composition, lending the scene a sense of scale and shifting light typical of the romantic landscape tradition. The view was drawn by j.m.w. Turner r.a., whose early topographical works already reveal his exceptional sensitivity to light, atmosphere, and spatial depth. Though best known for his later, more expressive paintings, turner’s landscape drawings of this period are highly regarded for their balance of observation and poetic interpretation. The engraving was executed by william byrne f.s.a., one of the leading british engravers of the time, whose refined technique faithfully translates turner’s composition into a detailed and harmonious print. Published in london in 1805, this plate forms part of the important series britannia depicta, a monumental project documenting notable views of britain during the georgian era. The series appealed to collectors interested in topography, travel, and the picturesque, and today these prints are valued for both their historical relevance and timeless decorative quality. The composition’s soft coloring, expansive sky, and calm rural subject make this print especially suitable for interiors. It works beautifully in living spaces, libraries, or studies, either as a standalone piece or paired with other english landscapes from the same period. Condition report: very good condition for its age. Light overall toning and minor handling marks consistent with early-19th-century paper. No major defects observed. Please study the image carefully. Framing tips: a warm gilt, antique oak, or dark walnut frame complements the period character. Use an off-white or light cream mat to enhance depth and preserve the atmospheric qualities of the sky and landscape. Technique: copper engraving with original hand coloring maker: william byrne after j.m.w. Turner, london, 1805 See less