Coutances, Normandy

Prout made the first of many trips to the continent in 1819. He went on to produce hundreds of picturesque views of old corners of European cities, featuring medieval architecture and figures in local costume. This view is taken from the Rue Geoffroy-de-Montbray in Normandy. The cathedral can be seen behind the Church of St. Pierre. Prout's penwork was adept at representing crumbling stonework and quaint carvings, and his compositions display a restless and busy asymmetry. He was much admired and frequently imitated.