Bixley, Norfolk. by John Crome, 1768-1821

John Crome, 1768-1821
Scroll down for information.
Click here to return to the list.

Bixley, Norfolk.

Original softground etching in black ink. c.1812. From the first edition of 60 impressions. As completed by Crome in c.1812, and with no rework. From the edition issued by the artist's widow, 1834. Almost no impressions dating from 1812 are known.
Ref: Theobald - John Crome no 33,only state, without rework.

Extremely fine tonal impression. On off white laid india (chine appliqué) with a pale cream toned wove backing sheet, as printed. Excellent condition; the faintest sign of an old mount mark; very minor tears in the extreme outer margin edge repaired. Very good margins. Sheet: 11 1/2 x 15
ins. Plate: 6 1/2 x 9 3/8ins (165x238mm)

This item is sold.
Click here to enquire about this item.

In addition to his work in pure etching around 1812 Crome became interested in using the tonal qualities of softground etching. By laying a piece of paper or even cloth over the ground on the etching plate and drawing onto the paper or cloth, rather than directly working the wax on the plate, the final bitten line becomes textural rather than clearly incisive.

Crome had probably seen the technique of softground in Gainsborough's prints, which were much admired in artists' circles, or in the by then well-known softgrounds with aquatint by Farington. By using this manner of etching he was able to create particularly beautiful and delicate qualities of light and atmosphere - the essence of the 'open-air' landscape of early nineteenth century Norwich School art, and echoing very closely the style of his pencil and chalk drawings.

See also the notes on Crome in Back of the New Mills, Norwich.