An interesting late 19th/early 20th century watercolour study by Ada Leonora Bowley (1867-1954). The artist has depicted a group of classical figures relaxing beside a pool. Bowley has clearly been inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite movement and the theories of John Ruskin, who urged artists to ‘go to nature’. Their principal themes were initially religious, but they also used subjects from literature and poetry, particularly those dealing with love and death.
Natural elements fill the composition, also typical of the Art Nouveau movement, which took its inspiration from the natural world, its characteristic motifs include delicate tendrils, organic forms, swooping, swirling lines, eccentric geometry and exotic bodies. This fine example of Bowley's diverse practice is finely composed, the decorative apple tree fills the background, while the ripples in the pool are wonderfully finished. It is clear from the superb detail and handling of the medium that Bowley was a highly skilled draughtsman.
Best known for her illustrations and postcard designs, Ada Bowley lived and worked with her sister Sophia May Bowley all of her life, primarily as designers for Raphael Tuck & Sons selling pictures and greeting cards, Ada also illustrated annuals and books. It's possible this watercolour was an original design for such a company.
The watercolour is finished with pen and ink detail, and areas of graphite with white gouache. Well presented in a double card mount and gilt frame.
Signed. On wove.
The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration and foxing. There is visible damage to the left hand side, with some creasing and closed tears (please see images). There is also a small hole/loss to the lower left area. The frame has a few minor marks, mostly visible to the left hand side, where there are some losses to the paint.
38 x 56cm (15" x 22")Framed Size: 63 x 83cm (24.8" x 32.7")
Born in London, Ada Bowley studied at Blackheath School of Art with her sister Sophia May. Ada continued her artistic education at the Herkomer Art School in Bushey, from 1888-1891. She exhibited at the RA and started work by contributing to popular magazines of the day, which included Little Folks, Tatler and the Queen. Both sisters worked for postcard publishers Valentine, Salmon and Raphael Tuck and also illustrated annuals and books. Later in their careers they worked for other publishing houses which included Partridge & Dean and Company.
| SKU | kj521 |
|---|---|
| Artist | Ada Leonora Bowley (1867-1954) |
| Date | Early 20th Century |
| Dimensions | 38 x 56cm |
| Medium | Watercolour |
| Style | Art Nouveau |
| Subject | Classical |
| Item Returns | This item can be returned |
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