Rare pencil drawing by Constable to be unveiled in Enfield

A rare pencil drawing by world famous artist John Constable is being unveiled by Enfield Council next week.

The fascinating artwork, which is 217 years old and depicts a rural scene drawn in the style of a theatrical arch was previously stored at Forty Hall, after being purchased in the 80s.  Enfield Council has decided to put the artwork on display to mark the launch of its free 'Enfield Life' Exhibition.

The piece is an early and unusual example of Constable's work and was thought to have been completed when the artist was visiting his uncle in Edmonton .  It is signed by Constable and dated 1796, a date when we know that the artist was in the area.

In 1973, prior to its purchase by Enfield , it was exhibited at the Tate Gallery in an exhibition entitled 'Landscape in Britain 1750-1850'.

Cllr Bambos Charalambous, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Youth and Localism said: "It's incredibly exciting that we are exhibiting this artwork by John Constable, and we want to share it with as many people as possible so it will be going on display in our 'Enfield Life' exhibition.

"John Constable is one of England 's most famous landscape artists. His Uncle, Thomas Allen, lived in the Church Street area of Edmonton . Evidence that Constable stayed with the family in Edmonton in the summer of 1796 comes from a letter sent by him to his father from Allen's home, dated 11 August 1796.

"I'd urge residents to come along and see our 'Enfield Life' Exhibition, it's the first permanent, local history exhibition in Enfield , and reflects the borough's rich history and tells the story of the people who have lived and worked in Enfield and helped shape the borough."

Available to be seen from Saturday 26th January.

Opening times 10.00am to 5.00pm Mon-Sat and 10.00am to 1.00pm Sunday.

The Dugdale Centre, 39 London Road , Enfield , EN2 6DS