Watercolour on paper

Donated by Mr. E. B. Bramwell in memory of his wife, 1983

The Subject

In the later medieval period Coventry had a large city wall with 12 gates. Unfortunately, as a 'roundhead' city, Coventry felt the wrath of King Charles II when he claimed the throne, and he had the wall torn down.

However, the city gates also often served as houses, and so were spared. Several of these gates were pulled down in the 18th century, but Cook Strret Gate survived, and is to be found behind Coventry Transport Museum.

The wall was begun in the mid 14th century (paid for by taxes from 1328 onwards), but was only completed around 1530. Even before the city wall was finished, ideas on fortification and methods of war had undergone fundamental changes. Such defences offered little protection against cannon fire.

Coventry had been one of the most important towns in Britain in the later medieval period. In 1449 it was ordered that four persons be appointed to look after each gate, one one whom was to hold the keys, unlocking it in the morning and shutting it at 'IX of ye clok in ye nyght'.

In the later medieval period sheep were sold on the corner of Cook Street and Rood Lane. Several 19th century artists still show people driving animals, cattle, sheep, even pigs, through Coventry's streets. At that time Coventry had become less important, only a market town.

The Artist

Johann Fischer was born in 1786 in Hanover, Germany. He was the son of an engraver, and was a pupil of the German court painter J.H. Ramberg (born in 1763). Ramberg came to England and painted the British royal family viewing the Great Room at the Royal Academy. Fischer himself came to England in 1810, and painted miniatures for the royal family, and military uniforms for the Prince Regent. He also painted many watercolours like this, and scenery for the theatre. King George IV appointed him official miniature painter to the king. He exhibited watercolours at the Royal Academy for a period of 60 years, from 1811 to 1871.

The Place of Johann George Paul Fischer in Art

The course of art would have remained completely unchanged had Johann Fischer never lived. Despite this the world would have been that little bit poorer, as his works are a charming contribution to the pleasant and civilised things of life.

Other works by the artist in The Herbert

The artist's companion picture of St. Mary's Hall, Coventry, also given by Mr. Bramwell to the Herbet Art Gallery and Museum.