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Student Artwork Guide

In the Cabbage Patch

Name Class Date

john robertson reid, In the Cabbage Patch (1877). Public domain.

The facts

Artist
john robertson reid topimpressionists.com/en/artists/john-robertson-reid/
Artist’s dates
1851 – 1926
Painted
1877
Original size
46 x 30 cm

In context

In the Cabbage Patch — john robertson reid

How big is it?

The original measures 46 × 30 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1850
  2. 1860
  3. 1870
  4. 1880
  5. 1890
  6. 1900
  7. 1910
  8. 1920

Shaded: the lifetime of john robertson reid (1851–1926) ▲ this work, 1877

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Driftwood #898953

    Catalogued palette

    • #898953
    • #5F6335
    • #3C3B1E
    • #B4B48F
    Main colour name
    Driftwood
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Balanced How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    About this artwork

    In the Cabbage Patch — john robertson reid

    The painting "In the Cabbage Patch" by John Robertson Reid is a beautiful example of oil on canvas art, created in 1877. This stunning piece is housed at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery - Museum in the United Kingdom. The painting measures 46 x 30 cm and depicts a woman standing in a garden surrounded by various plants, including broccoli.

    The Artist's Style

    John Robertson Reid's style is characterized by his attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of everyday life. In "In the Cabbage Patch", he masterfully uses light and color to create a sense of warmth and tranquility. The woman in the painting is shown holding a large bunch of broccoli, while two other people can be seen in the background. Handmade oil painting reproductions of "In the Cabbage Patch" are available on https://AllPaintingsStore.com, allowing art lovers to own a piece of history. These reproductions are created using the same techniques and materials as the original, ensuring that they are of the highest quality.

    Painting title: In the Cabbage Patch

    Artist: John Robertson Reid

    Museum: Russell-Cotes Art Gallery - Museum

    Year created: 1877

    Medium: Oil on canvas

    Other notable artists whose works are available on https://AllPaintingsStore.com include Jean Jacques Henner, Ilya Yefimovich Repin, and Jean Georges Béraud. Their paintings, such as "Pasteur" and "Portrait of Chuguev resident S.L. Lyubitskaya", are also available as handmade oil painting reproductions.

    For more information on John Robertson Reid and his works, visit https://AllPaintingsStore.com. To learn more about the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery - Museum, visit their website or check out https://AllPaintingsStore.com for more information on art museums and galleries.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    john robertson reid

    Early Life and Artistic Foundations

    John Robertson Reid, born on August 6th, 1851, in Scotland, embarked on a journey that would see him capture the essence of British life with remarkable detail and sensitivity. His initial artistic training under George Chalmers and William MacTaggart laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors, instilling within him a respect for traditional techniques alongside an emerging interest in capturing the natural world directly from observation. This early period was characterized by a dedication to plein air painting – working outdoors, directly before the subject – a practice that would become central to his artistic identity and set him apart from many of his contemporaries. He honed his skills depicting the Surrey countryside, often employing local people as models, creating scenes imbued with authenticity and a quiet dignity.

    The Cornish Years: A Flourishing Career

    In the early 1880s, Reid relocated to Cornwall, a region that would profoundly influence his artistic output for decades. The rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and vibrant community provided an endless source of inspiration. It was here that his career truly flourished. He became known for his ability to portray everyday life with both realism and emotional depth. Scenes of coastal activity, family gatherings, and rural pursuits filled his canvases, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during the Victorian era. This period saw him move toward what would become his signature style – a blend of Naturalism, influenced by artists like Sir George Clausen, and elements of Realism inspired by French painters such as Jules Bastien-Lepage, with subtle hints of Impressionistic techniques in his handling of light and color.

    Presidency and Recognition

    Reid’s talent and dedication did not go unnoticed. In 1886, he was elected President of the Society of British Artists, a prestigious position that provided him with increased visibility and access to London's art circles. He further solidified his standing in the artistic community by becoming President of the Society of Sculptors, Painters and Gravers in 1898. These roles not only elevated his profile but also allowed him to champion the work of other artists and contribute to the broader cultural landscape. His paintings were increasingly sought after, and he gained a reputation for capturing the spirit of the age with honesty and grace.

    A Unique Approach: Cricket Matches and Social Commentary

    While Reid excelled in portraying various aspects of British life, his depictions of country cricket matches are particularly noteworthy. “A Country Cricket Match,” painted at The Well House in West Sussex, is a prime example of his ability to blend sporting action with social observation. These paintings weren’t merely records of a game; they were detailed portraits of Victorian society, capturing the interactions and nuances of village life. He meticulously documented the scene on location, adding layers of authenticity that resonated with viewers. Beyond cricket, Reid's work often subtly commented on the changing social dynamics of the time, portraying the lives of working-class individuals with respect and dignity – a refreshing perspective in an era often dominated by depictions of the upper classes.

    Legacy and Influence

    John Robertson Reid passed away on February 10th, 1926, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy. His work continues to be admired for its technical skill, emotional depth, and insightful portrayal of Victorian life. He was not only a talented painter but also a dedicated advocate for the arts, fostering a sense of community among his peers. His sisters, Lizzie Reid and Flora MacDonald Reid, were also exhibiting artists, demonstrating a strong artistic lineage within the family. Furthermore, he was the great-uncle of Sir Norman Reid, who later served as Director of the Tate Gallery, further cementing the family’s contribution to the art world. His paintings offer a valuable window into a bygone era, capturing the beauty and complexity of British society with enduring appeal.

    Where to read more

    • The artist john robertson reid topimpressionists.com/en/artists/john-robertson-reid/
    • Similar works More works to compare topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for In the Cabbage Patch

    topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    reid, john robertson. In the Cabbage Patch. 1877, https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/
    APA
    reid, john robertson (1877). In the Cabbage Patch [Painting]. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/
    Chicago
    john robertson reid. In the Cabbage Patch. 1877. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/
    Harvard
    reid, john robertson (1877) In the Cabbage Patch. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/john-robertson-reid-in-the-cabbage-patch-AQV4MP-en/

    Look closely

    In the Cabbage Patch — john robertson reid

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Look back at Rival Grandfathers (1884), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    4. john robertson reid was about 26 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?
    5. What might the artist have wanted you to feel?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.