Seen beside pale linen, the ski scene loses nostalgia and gains grit. The slope is soft pink and cream, the sky is clear blue, and the tiny skiers in red, mustard and orange jackets carry the whole room.

A quiet wall warms up the moment this goes on it. The pastel buildings and busy little figures bring movement and a hint of holiday, without shouting.

It suits a living room above a low sideboard, a hallway that needs lifting, or a kids’ bedroom that wants something a bit more grown-up than a cartoon. Hang it at eye level on a chalky off-white or pale blue wall.

Pairs well with pale oak, cream linen, soft wool throws and a touch of brushed brass. Blush ceramics and a wool rug finish the look.

Don’t crowd it with other busy scenes it needs a bit of breathing room. Stretched canvas on a wooden frame, ready to hang straight out of the box.