Montague Smyth (1863–1965) - Early 20thC Watercolour Bathers By The Stream

Description

This fine early 20th Century watercolour sketch was one of the artist's preparatory sketches for his finished painting, "Eventide." It shows to nude figures, drying themselves beside a lake on a calm evening. This fine sketch shows an excellent eye for colour and composition and highlights the artist's deft hand. The artist has signed to the reverse of the paper and the painting has been presented in a gilt frame with wide card mount. There is a label at the reverse with the artist's name and dates, a brief biography and the painting's title. On wove.

Condition

The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration.

Size

38.5 x 43.6cm (15.2" x 17.2")
Framed Size: 66 x 71.5cm (26" x 28.1")

Artist Biography

Painter of atmospheric landscapes, born and based in London, who spent several early childhood years with his mother in New Zealand, returning to live with his grandmother. Was educated at Leamington College and Cambridge University, abandoned the idea of an Army career, then studied art alone on the continent. His only lessons were from Fred Brown at Westminster School of Art and in Italy. Smyth had early success, in 1894 joining the RBA and showing at RA; having a solo show at Dowdeswell Galleries in 1899; in 1904 joining the ROI. He became its president, also of the London Sketch Club of which he was a founder-member in 1898. In 1905 Smyth travelled through China and Japan, resulting pictures illustrating books on the countries and forming the basis of a solo exhibition at Baillie Gallery, 1906.

In 1914 Smyth falsified his age and served with the Artists’ Rifles. Supported by a small private income Smyth, a keen sportsman, continued active as an artist until he died. His last one-man exhibition was at the Fine Art Society in 1921. Belgrave Gallery organised a touring show in 1978.