JOHN NASH, R.A. (LONDON 1893-1977 COLCHESTER)

The present work is likely a study for a woodcut of the same subject, recently rediscovered in the Victor Batte-Lay Collection in Colchester. The serene scene alludes to the comfort Nash felt within nature, depicting a wooden bench peacefully nestled within a cluster of trees at the centre of the composition. Through the branches in the distance a wide lawn, winding path and pond can be glimpsed. Nash was a passionate gardener, favouring adventurous planting inspired by visits to Kew Gardens. He famously declared these interests to close friend and fellow artist Edward Bawden, ‘For years I have tried, not without success, to be both a professional painter and an amateur gardener’ (J. Nash quoted in J. Rothenstein, John Nash, London 1983, p. 97).

We are very grateful to Andrew Lambirth for his assistaince in preparing this catalogue entry.