Gezicht bij Tours 1808

Josephus Augustus Knip made this watercolor called "View Near Tours." It shows us a ruined bridge with grazing animals, and a man with a hat standing next to them. In the distance are more grazing animals and some buildings. Made in the early 1800s, the watercolor speaks to a renewed interest in the classical world as well as the rise of the agricultural middle class. It's important to consider this watercolor in the context of history painting. Knip's teacher was an accomplished history painter who embraced the classical style. Knip, however, moved toward landscape painting. Historical research into 19th-century French politics and culture helps us understand the meanings of this work. Examining similar paintings, political documents, and Knip’s personal history contextualizes this artwork and reveals how it reflects the artist’s milieu.