Donald McIntyre

Mousehole, Cornwall

Oil on board Board size: 20.5 x 24.5 inches Framed size: 25 x 29 inches Signed lower left

Oil on board Board size: 20 x 28 inches Framed size: 29 x 37 inches Signed lower right

Mousehole Beach Cornwall Trevor Waugh Watercolour Coastal Scenes

Eric Ward (British, 20th Century) Mousehole Regatta, Cornwall Oil on canvas Signed lower right Eric Ward was a gifted British landscape and marine painter whose colourful interpretations of Britain’s coastal villages captured the charm and vitality of seaside life during the twentieth century. Working in a fresh Impressionist manner, Ward became particularly known for his evocative harbour scenes, where brilliant coastal light, shimmering reflections and the movement of sailing craft combined to create compositions of enduring decorative appeal. His paintings celebrate the unique character of Britain’s maritime heritage, especially the picturesque fishing communities of Cornwall. This delightful painting depicts the picturesque harbour of Mousehole, one of Cornwall’s most celebrated fishing villages, during the excitement of the annual regatta. Sheltered by its historic granite harbour walls, the tranquil waters are alive with traditional sailing boats, their colourful sails reflected in the calm sea beneath an expansive summer sky. Small rowing boats drift quietly in the foreground, while visitors stroll along the quayside, enjoying the festivities against a backdrop of whitewashed cottages climbing the hillside beyond. Ward masterfully captures the distinctive atmosphere that has attracted artists to Mousehole for well over a century. His confident brushwork and luminous palette beautifully convey the clarity of the Cornish light, where brilliant blues, soft turquoise waters and warm earth tones combine in perfect harmony. The vibrant red and white sails punctuate the composition with striking accents of colour, while the broken reflections dancing across the harbour create an impression of gentle movement and sparkling sunshine. Throughout the twentieth century, Mousehole became one of Britain’s most important artistic destinations, drawing painters inspired by its intimate harbour, traditional fishing boats and unspoilt coastal scenery. Ward continues this distinguished tradition, producing a work that balances careful observation with an impressionistic freedom, allowing colour and atmosphere to take precedence over meticulous detail. The result is a painting that is both instantly recognisable as one of Cornwall’s most beloved harbours and timeless in its celebration of the English seaside. Beautifully composed and executed with a lively painterly touch, this oil on canvas perfectly encapsulates the relaxed spirit of a Cornish regatta. Rich in colour, light and maritime character, it is an excellent example of Eric Ward’s coastal paintings and would make a charming addition to any collection of British marine art, Cornish paintings...