Attrib. Margaret Dovaston (1884-1954) - Early 20th Century Graphite Head Study

Description

A very delicate graphite head study of a young lady probably completed during the early 20th century. We have attributed the portrait to the English artist Margaret Davidson due to an inscription on the reverse which reads 'M.R.O by Dovaston'. On wove.

Condition

There are numerous closed tears to the outer edges of the paper. The largest measuring 5cm at the upper edge. Also with a 4cm closed tear to the right edge. Various small tears to other edges of the paper. With some minor creasing, foxing and discolouration. The main image is still in good condition.

Size

25.5 x 23.1cm (10" x 9.1")
Sheet: 43.9 x 31.5cm (17.3" x 12.4")

Artist Biography

Margaret Isabel Dovaston (1884-1954) was a British artist who became particularly well known for her oil paintings of historical interior English genre scenes. She spent her whole working life in the Ealing and Acton area of west London. She first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1908, and in 1910, she was active in establishing The Ealing Art Guild, later to become the Ealing Arts Club. Her historical genre paintings were based on an accurate knowledge of costume, furniture and furnishings of the period. This was gained from many hours spent in London museums and art galleries. She died on Christmas Eve 1954.