Turner in January 2009

Welcome the New Year with a wonderful Scottish tradition: the annual display of Turner watercolours.

These works, bequeathed by Henry Vaughan, span Turner's long career, from his early topographical wash drawings to the atmospheric sketches of continental Europe from the 1830s and '40s.

Vaughan stipulated in his bequest that these delicate watercolours should only be shown in January when natural daylight is at its weakest, so they will not fade. This limited exposure has resulted in the works retaining their natural brilliance and luminous colours.

Turner in January 2009
The Henry Vaughan Bequest
William Turner
Royal Scottish Academy Building