What you are looking at
A dark locomotive rushes toward us across a bridge through a haze of rain and steam, its shape barely holding together in Turner's swirling paint.
Why it is famous
Turner painted it in 1844, showing a train on the Great Western Railway crossing the Maidenhead bridge over the Thames. It is one of the first great paintings of modern technology, and many see it as a forerunner of Impressionism.
How big is Rain, Steam and Speed?
Rain, Steam and Speed measures 91 × 121.8 cm (35.8 × 48.0 in), without its frame. Its surface is about 3 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
It is at the National Gallery in London, which is free.
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More by J. M. W. Turner
Also at The National Gallery
SunflowersVincent van Gogh, 1888 LondonFrequently asked questions
Who painted Rain, Steam and Speed?
J. M. W. Turner painted Rain, Steam and Speed in 1844.
Where is the Rain, Steam and Speed?
Rain, Steam and Speed is in The National Gallery, London, United Kingdom.
How big is Rain, Steam and Speed?
91 × 121.8 cm (35.8 × 48.0 in). Its surface is about 3 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
What is Rain, Steam and Speed made with?
Oil on canvas.
Sources: Wikidata Q2339059; Wikipedia, "Rain, Steam and Speed". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.