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Ascent of Balloon from Burlington House, Piccadilly

This watercolor depicts a historical event: the ascent of a hot air balloon from Burlington House, Piccadilly. The scene is rendered with a delicate touch, characteristic of early 19th-century sketches. A large, striped balloon dominates the upper right quadrant, suspended against a dramatic, cloudy sky. Below, a crowd of spectators gathers, suggesting a public spectacle. The architecture of Burlington House, with its classical facade and surrounding trees, provides a grounded context for the aerial feat. The artist's inscription at the bottom right, dated 1812, identifies the location and event, offering a valuable glimpse into early aviation and social gatherings of the period. The muted color palette and loose brushwork evoke a sense of historical authenticity and atmospheric depth.

Colour palette