John Massey Wright RWS (1777-1866) - Watercolour Stage Character - The Hero

Description

A very fine early/mid 19th century figurative watercolour study by the highly collectable watercolourist John Masse Wright. The present watercolour is an exceptional examples of Massey's character studies, in which he specialised. Similar studies which have been offered at auction include characters from 'Taming of the Shrew' and 'Rome and Juliet'. The present study features the play's hero, dressed in fine Italian costume in a classical interior (typical of a theatrical backdrop). The sheet has been shaped and laid to backing paper, measuring 27 x 21 cm. Signed. On wove.

Condition

The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration as shown. A corner coming loose from the backing paper. Overall the appearance is very good.

Size

14.5 x 7.7cm (5.7" x 3")
Sheet: 27.2 x 21.1cm (10.7" x 8.3")

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Artist Biography

John Massey Wright was born in Pentonville, London, 1777 to an organ builder. For some time Wright pursued in the footsteps of his father and showed remarkable musical talent. However, he was often found drawings rather than playing and his career turned to art.

For a time Wright apprenticed with Henry Aston Barker, painting the battle scenes in Barker's panorama in the Strand. However, his real talent lay in his small studies illustrating the poems of William Shakespeare, Oliver Goldsmith and others.

Wright exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1812-1818 and was elected a member of the Royal Society of Painters in Watercolours in 1825.