The artists van
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The artists van
The artists van. Marcus Sparling, full-length portrait, seated on Roger Fentons photographic van. Date 1855
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7263359
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10591151
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the moment when British artist Marcus Sparling takes a break from the frontlines of the Crimean War to create a painting on the shores of the Eastern Sea. Dated 1855, the photograph shows Sparling seated on the exterior of Roger Fenton's portable photographic darkroom and lab, known as a 'van.' At the time, Fenton was one of the most renowned photographers of the British Empire, documenting the Crimean War for Queen Victoria and the world. The Crimean War (1853-1856) was a significant conflict between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire, with the British and French allied forces intervening on the side of the Ottomans. The war took place along the shores of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, making this location a strategic and picturesque setting for Sparling's work. The artist's easel and painting supplies are visible in the background, as he pauses to capture the scene before him. The van, with its distinctive red stripes and ornate detailing, serves as a mobile studio and darkroom, allowing Sparling to create and develop his artwork in the field. The rugged terrain and military presence in the background underscore the challenging conditions under which these artists worked during times of war. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into the artistic process during the Crimean War, as well as the role of the British and French Empires in shaping the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Sparling's painting, like Fenton's photographs, would have contributed to the visual record of this pivotal moment in history.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
