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In 1826, Turner filled an 89-page sketchbook with views along England's east coast.  He soon selected eight to complete as gouaches (opaque watercolors) on blue paper including Orford Haven and Lowestoffe Lighthouse.

Turner's experimentation with gouache and blue paper resulted in works that were less detailed but richer in dramatic effect.  Gouache allowed him to silhouette Orford's 12th-century keep against a lurid sunset above the sheltered harbor obscured by the deep blue shadows of twilight.