Frost Fair

17th Century London Frost Fair on the Thames - painting by Graham Turner

Frost Fair Ref: GT-FF

During the 17th Century, the River Thames in London would often freeze sufficiently to allow the famous frost fairs to take place. In the winter of 1683/84, the ice was almost a foot thick and the Thames remained frozen for weeks. Boats were fitted with skates and stalls set up with food, shops and games.

The scene was described by John Evelyn: 'Coaches plied from Westminster to the Temple, and from several other stairs too and fro, as in the streets; sleds, sliding with skeetes, a bull-baiting, horse and coach races, puppet plays and interludes, cooks, tipling and other lewd places, so that it seemed to be a bacchanalian triumph, or carnival on the water.'

Original gouache painting by Graham Turner - image size 17"x 12" (43 x 30cm)

click on image to enlarge

Graham Turner's painting is packed with narrative details showing some of the entertainments that were on offer - CLICK HERE to see some enlarged detail images.

Price: £595.00

Graham Turner's Original Paintings are offered for sale by the artist himself, rather than through Studio 88, which is our print publishing business. Consequently, payment directly to him is preferred. If you are interested in purchasing an original painting, please email Graham Turner at graham@studio88.co.uk to discuss the purchase or to arrange to visit.

The cost of shipping original paintings varies, depending on their size, value and destination. Our usual shipping rates do not apply, but we would be happy to provide a quote for shipping to your address if you are unable to collect.

CLICK HERE for more information about buying an original.

17th Century London Frost Fair on the Thames - detail from a painting by Graham Turner

THE HISTORICAL ART OF GRAHAM TURNER

Studio 88 also publish a large range of prints and greeting cards from Graham Turner's medieval and historical paintings. For details of the full Studio 88 range of medieval and historic prints and cards, and other original paintings - CLICK HERE

Historical Art by Graham Turner - mid-Victorian Britain