Windsor Castle John Piper refers to a series of watercolor paintings commissioned by Queen Elizabeth (later known as the Queen Mother) from the British artist John Piper during World War II. These captivating works showcase the architectural splendor and dramatic atmosphere of one of the most iconic castles in the United Kingdom.
The Nature of John Piper’s Artistic Work
John Piper’s commission from Queen Elizabeth involved creating a series of watercolor paintings that captured the essence of Windsor Castle during the tumultuous years of World War II. Piper’s artistic style was characterized by several key elements:
- Commission: Queen Elizabeth commissioned Piper to create a series of watercolor paintings of Windsor Castle around 1941-1944.
- Style: Piper’s watercolors featured dramatic vistas, dark storm clouds, and a strong focus on the castle’s architecture, particularly its towers.
- Technique: Piper’s skill as an architectural draughtsman allowed him to create an extraordinary illusion of depth in his paintings.
Reflecting Piper’s Artistic Style
Piper’s distinctive artistic style was evident in several aspects of his Windsor Castle paintings:
- Dark Skies: The use of dark storm clouds in Piper’s paintings reflected his penchant for dramatic and moody skies, which was not always appreciated by King George VI, who remarked that Piper seemed to have had bad luck with the weather.
- Focus on Architecture: Piper’s paintings placed a strong emphasis on the architecture of Windsor Castle, capturing its grandeur and scale through dramatic vantage points, such as the view from the roof of St George’s Chapel.
Specific Aspects of Windsor Castle Depicted
Piper’s Windsor Castle paintings highlighted several specific aspects of the iconic British landmark:
- Towers and Architecture: The towers of Windsor Castle were a frequent subject in Piper’s paintings, often depicted in a dramatic and eerie manner due to the absence of human figures.
- High Vantage Points: Many of Piper’s paintings were created from high vantage points, such as the roof of St George’s Chapel, which allowed him to capture the extensive and varied scenery of the castle.
- Dark Storm Clouds: The dark storm clouds that feature prominently in Piper’s paintings added a sense of threat and drama to the scenes, reflecting the wartime atmosphere during which they were created.
Additional Details
Beyond the commissioned watercolor paintings, Piper’s artistic work related to Windsor Castle also included:
- Lithographs: Piper created lithographs of Windsor Castle, such as the one printed on cartridge paper and signed in the plate only, which is dated around 1948.
- Penguin Print Series: Piper’s work was part of the Penguin Print Series, which ran from 1948 to 1952 but was eventually discontinued due to lack of public demand.
In conclusion, the Windsor Castle John Piper series of watercolor paintings stands as a remarkable artistic legacy, capturing the grandeur and drama of one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks during a time of great upheaval. Piper’s unique style and technical mastery have ensured that these works continue to captivate and inspire viewers to this day.