Lady Louisa Beresford (1818-1891) - Graphite Drawing Caen Wood

Description

A fine delicate graphite drawing of a wooded path with figures, entitled 'Caen Wood', by the Pre-Raphaelite watercolourist Lady Louisa Beresford, Marchioness of Waterford (1818-1891). Caen Wood was part of an ancient forest beside Caen Wood House in Hampstead, London. This later became Kenwood House, and while the house and grounds survive, the wood has been lost. It is likely the artist knew the owners of the estate, the Earl and Countess of Mansfield. Well-presented in a wide lined mount, as shown. Unsigned and inscribed. On wove.

Condition

In very good condition overall. There are some marks and surface dirt to the mount.

Size

9.9 x 7cm (3.9" x 2.8")
Sheet: 27.7 x 23.7cm (10.9" x 9.3")

Artist Biography

Lady Louisa Beresford, Marchioness of Waterford (1818-1891) was a Pre-Raphaelite watercolourist and aristocratic philanthropist. Louisa was tutored by Dante Gabriel Rossetti and attended drawing classes held by John Ruskin, together with Lady Trevelyan and Kate Greenaway, and had introduced Rose La Touche to him. It is believed that she modelled for Sir John Everett Millais in several of his works, and her beauty has been accredited as one of the inspirations of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Her own work includes fine drawings and watercolours, and works have previously sold at auction at Sotheby's and Christie's in London.