Peter Curran 1987 Watercolor ‘Tower Bridge’, London, Framed

Atmospheric yet unmistakably London, this original watercolor on paper by Peter Curran captures the iconic twin bascules and Victorian Gothic towers of Tower Bridge emerging through river mist. Loose washes of slate-blue, pewter and soft ochre soften the masonry while selective dark accents pick out tracery and arches, conveying both structure and movement. The handwritten inscription lower right reads “Tower Bridge – Tuesday 27th July – P. Curran 1987,” firmly placing the scene in situ and in time. Double-matted in ivory with a narrow olive fillet and housed in a simple bronze-tone wooden moulding, the work is ready to hang—a lyrical snapshot of London’s Thames waterfront at the close of the 20th century.

Artist Biography: Peter Curran (British, 1948–2006)

Peter Curran was a British watercolorist celebrated for his atmospheric depictions of urban landscapes, particularly those surrounding rivers and harbors. Born in Bristol in 1948, Curran’s personal experiences—including being adopted as an infant and later reclaiming his birth mother’s surname—profoundly shaped his artistic journey and thematic interests. Known for his sensitive and poetic style, Curran masterfully employed delicate washes of color to capture fleeting moments of light and shadow, often painting en plein air to authentically record the essence and character of his subjects.

Curran exhibited widely during his lifetime, notably in Gloucestershire and Liverpool, earning recognition for his skillful ability to depict the subtle moods of Britain’s waterways and cityscapes. His works remain sought after by collectors who appreciate their expressive quality and evocative sense of place. A retrospective exhibition held at Liverpool’s Albert Dock in 2013 further solidified his legacy, celebrating Curran’s distinct contributions to contemporary British watercolor painting.

Condition
Good overall. Colors remain fresh; sheet lies flat. Noted are minor scuffs to the frame and a faint water stain on the lower right mat margin (outside the image). No tears or foxing observed on the artwork itself—see photos.

Dimensions
Framed: 21.5 × 28.5 in.
Visible (sight): 14.5 × 21.5 in.