Hadleigh Castle (1829) by John Constable

Hadleigh Castle - John Constable - 1829

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Artwork Information

TitleHadleigh Castle
ArtistJohn Constable
Date1829
MediumOil on Canvas
Dimensions122 x 164.5 cm
Art MovementRomanticism
Current LocationYale Centre For British Art (Yale University), New Haven, CT, US
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About Hadleigh Castle

John Constable’s painting of Hadleigh Castle, “The Mouth of the Thames,” is a departure from his usual idyllic country scenes. He initially made a drawing of the castle during a visit in 1814, which he later developed into an oil sketch in preparation for the finished painting executed in 1829. The resulting image of loneliness and decay is now often seen as exemplifying his desolate state of mind at the time.

During this period, Constable was struggling with personal difficulties as his wife was battling her final illness. This devastating oil “sketch” reflects that turmoil and grief. The painting depicts the ruins of Hadleigh Castle with dark clouds hanging over them, casting shadows on its decaying walls.

Despite its gloominess, Hadleigh Castle remains an important work in Constable’s oeuvre for its innovative use of color and light. His expert handling of atmospheric perspective creates a sense of depth and space within the painting. Currently housed at Yale Center for British Art as part of the Paul Mellon Collection, it serves as a testament to both Constable’s talent and personal struggles during this period in his life.

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