James Johnson

British, 1803 - 1834

Explore selected works

The scene depicts a family resting on a grassy area, with a man sitting, a woman standing with a jug, and two children interacting with them. There is a group of grazing animals, likely goats, on the left. In the background, there is a forested area leading to architectural structures resembling castles. The sky above is expansive, with a calm and serene atmosphere created by a color palette of soft greys and whites. The artwork showcases fine, detailed brushstrokes, particularly in the grassy textures and foliage.
Francis Danby, Samuel Jackson, James Johnson, Scenery of Bristol, 1823, complete folio of three lithographs on wove paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 2017.146.1

Scenery of Bristol

Francis Danby, Samuel Jackson, James Johnson · 1823 · complete folio of three lithographs on wove paper ·  Accession ID  2017.146.1

The image shows a partially demolished building with a Gothic-style arch as a prominent feature. The structure is worn, with remaining walls defining the horizon and scaffolding framing the scene. The artwork features delicate brushstrokes conveying texture and detail, with a color palette of muted grays, off-white tones, and hints of pink. A wooden gate is partially open, a ladder leans against a wall, and three figures are near the gate. Signs on a fence read "48 WIN ST RU." The composition leads the viewer to observe architectural features and activity below.
James Johnson, The Discovery of an East Window of All Saints’ Church, behind High Street, Bristol, 1821, watercolor and graphite on wove paper, Rosenwald Collection, 1951.16.157

The Discovery of an East Window of All Saints’ Church, behind High Street, Bristol

James Johnson · 1821 · watercolor and graphite on wove paper ·  Accession ID  1951.16.157

The image depicts a street view with old houses featuring steep, reddish-brown tiled roofs. The horizon shows distant buildings partially obscured by mist, blending into a pale sky with subtle cloud patterns. The painting's brushstrokes are delicate and precise in capturing architectural details. The color palette includes earthy tones for the buildings and a light blue-gray sky, creating a calm ambiance. In the distance, other faded structures enhance the artwork's depth and perspective.
James Johnson, View of Church Lane, Bristol, 1820s/1830s, watercolor, Rosenwald Collection, 1951.16.194

View of Church Lane, Bristol

James Johnson · 1820s/1830s · watercolor ·  Accession ID  1951.16.194

Bibliography

1993

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