John White Abbott

British, 1763 - 1851

Explore selected works

The image shows a dense forest with trees dominating the composition. The view is upward towards the canopy, focusing on the arrangement of tree trunks and branches. The brushstrokes are detailed, emphasizing textures through fine lines and gray tones. The color palette is monochromatic, creating a tranquil impact. Thick, gnarled trunks are prominent on the right side, with sinuous trees extending beyond. In the distance, trees thin out slightly, allowing light to filter through.
John White Abbott, Trees at Fordland, Devon, 1841, pen and gray ink with gray wash on heavy laid paper, Joseph F. McCrindle Endowment Fund, 2019.62.1

Trees at Fordland, Devon

John White Abbott · 1841 · pen and gray ink with gray wash on heavy laid paper ·  Accession ID  2019.62.1

The image shows a cliff overlooking the sea. The horizon is a quarter down from the top, with the calm sea meeting the sky. The brushstrokes are delicate and detailed, showing the rocky cliff and lush vegetation. The color palette is monochromatic with light grays. A path winds through foliage on the cliff, and a small figure stands near the edge. Tall trees lean over the cliff.
John White Abbott, Sheer Cliffs above a Coastal Road, 1810, pen and black ink with gray wash on wove paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 1995.1.1

Sheer Cliffs above a Coastal Road

John White Abbott · 1810 · pen and black ink with gray wash on wove paper ·  Accession ID  1995.1.1

The image shows a forest by a serene, tree-lined body of water. The horizon is high with tall trees extending close to it, creating a sense of depth. The brushstrokes and watercolor application are delicate, capturing textures of leaves and water gently. The color palette includes muted greens, soft browns, and hints of blue and cream. Closest to us is a dense cluster of trees on the right, curving over the water. Across the water, other tree clusters and shrubs recede into the misty background towards the left.
John White Abbott, Peamore, Devon, 1799, wash and watercolor with pen and black ink over graphite on eight joined sheets of laid paper, on the artist's original mount, Paul Mellon Fund, 2007.16.1

Peamore, Devon

John White Abbott · 1799 · wash and watercolor with pen and black ink over graphite on eight joined sheets of laid paper, on the artist's original mount ·  Accession ID  2007.16.1

Bibliography

1993

  • The Great Age of British Watercolors 1750-1880. Exh. cat. NGA, 1993.