When this now nearly-iconic painting, which has a very specific connection with the artist's family, was first exhibited in his homeland, no one wanted to buy it. In another country, however, it was praised by another great painter and awarded a prize by a king. Just a couple of years ago, the long-dead creator's compatriots voted it one of the greatest works of art owned by that nation. What is this much-loved work, now nearly 200 years old?

queproblema

Any hints? Mar 29 07, 5:53 PM

lanfranco

Well, I've just taken a straw poll among persons who are hanging out in my household at the moment, and the view is that I should mention that the subject is, um, rural. Mar 29 07, 6:01 PM

wendypj

Is it John Constable's 'The Hay Wain'? Mar 29 07, 10:22 PM

wendypj

Ah! It is indeed. I have just found another reference which confirms it. The subject is a hay wain by Flatford Mill, which was oned by Constables father. The painter who praised it was Theodore Gericault and the prize was a gold medal awarded by King Charles X of France. The rural clue gave it away! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hay_Wain Mar 29 07, 10:25 PM

lanfranco

Very nice, wendy. Yes, I did give it away, but the question had remained unanswered long enough that I thought I might as well be generous. No gold medals going here, but I'll give you another silver mace! Mar 30 07, 7:02 AM