At Tenby Possibly 1790

Heneage Finch, the 4th Earl of Aylesford, created this watercolor titled ‘At Tenby’ without a specified date, presenting us with a slice of 18th-century British life through the eyes of its aristocracy. It’s interesting to consider Finch’s position as an Earl, and how this influenced his perception and portrayal of the coastal town. The watercolor depicts ships gently bobbing in the harbor, with the suggestion of town buildings in the background, and figures at the pier's edge. There is a romantic, picturesque quality to the scene, indicative of the aesthetic sensibilities of the time. The seemingly simple scene is imbued with the social and economic realities of the period, reflecting both the significance of maritime activities and the lives of those connected to the sea. 'At Tenby' is less about precise documentation and more about evoking a sense of place and atmosphere, shaped by Finch's social standing.