The Iron Forge between Dolgelli and Barmouth in Merioneth Shire - Paul Sandby

A 1776 etching and aquatint by Paul Sandby depicting an industrial forge set against a Welsh waterfall, demonstrating his mastery of tonal printmaking.

Paul Sandby, often referred to as the father of English watercolour, produced this etching and aquatint in 1776. It depicts an industrial scene situated within the rugged terrain of Merionethshire, Wales. The composition balances the raw power of the natural waterfall with the man-made mechanics of the iron forge. A large water wheel dominates the side of the stone structure, powered by the rushing stream that flows from the falls. Smoke billows from the chimney, suggesting the active production occurring inside the building, while figures are visible near the open doorway, engaged in their labour.

Sandby was a pioneer of the aquatint process in Britain, a technique that allowed for subtle tonal gradations, mimicking the appearance of wash drawings. This print demonstrates his ability to capture both the atmospheric conditions of the Welsh mountains and the specific details of rural industry. The sky is rendered with dramatic clouds, providing a sense of movement that contrasts with the solid, grounded nature of the forge. The surrounding hills are depicted with a sense of scale, placing the industrial site firmly within the broader context of the Welsh countryside.

This work is part of a series documenting the British landscape during the eighteenth century. Sandby travelled extensively, recording sites that were becoming popular destinations for tourists and artists alike. His prints provided a visual record of these locations, combining topographical accuracy with an appreciation for the picturesque. The inclusion of the forge reflects the growing interest in the intersection of human activity and the natural world, a theme that would continue to occupy artists throughout the following century. The print remains a clear example of the technical precision and observational skill that defined Sandby's career as a draughtsman and printmaker.