Salisbury Cathedral from the south-west

Salisbury Cathedral from the South-West, painted around 1820 and held at the V&A, captures a view of the cathedral from a different angle than the more famous Bishop’s Grounds composition. The south-west view shows the cathedral’s full profile rising above the surrounding trees and water meadows. Constable’s multiple views of Salisbury Cathedral from different positions and in different conditions demonstrate his comprehensive approach to a subject, building a complete understanding through repeated observation.

The cathedral is rendered with architectural accuracy while maintaining atmospheric freshness. Constable balances the geometric precision of the Gothic structure against the organic forms of surrounding trees, with the sky providing a luminous backdrop.

This Salisbury Cathedral study from about 1820 is in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The painting provides a less commonly depicted viewpoint of the cathedral. The canvas has been stabilized and cleaned. The architectural detail is well-preserved. The work relates to the series of Salisbury subjects Constable developed during his visits to Archdeacon Fisher.