Thomas GirtinBritish, 1775–1802Rievaulx Abbey, Yorkshire
Can I see it?
Not on view at present
Where is “Rievaulx Abbey, Yorkshire” now? Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Not on view at present. Checked September 25, 2026.
London, United Kingdom
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the work
Thomas Girtin (1775-1802) achieved much as an artist during his short life. Like so many painters of the ‘Romantic’ period, he often chose to depict ruined abbeys and castles. Here he draws the architecture of the abbey in an accurate but lively manner. The figure examining the building on the right introduces a human element.
Monks of the Cistercian order founded the monastery of Rievaulx in the 12th century. The Cistercians chose isolated sites close to water to carry out their life of prayer and work. Rievaulx fell into ruin after Henry VIII (ruled 1509-1547) closed down the monasteries.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Details
- Accession number
- FA.499
What it shows
In the catalog
Sources
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Image: Victoria and Albert Museum — © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
