Samuel William Oscroft (1834-1924) - 1884 Watercolour Faraway Thoughts

Description

A fine late 19th century watercolour depicting an old fisherman and his faithful dog looking out to sea in late afternoon sun. Wistful and melancholic this is a fine example of Oscroft's later work. Signed with initials and dated. On paper.

Condition

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

Size

30.1 x 51.7cm (11.9" x 20.4")
Sheet: 32.8 x 54.4cm (12.9" x 21.4")

Artist Biography

Born in Hyson Green, Nottingham Samuel William Oscroft was the son of a local lacemaker. He attended the School of Design, (later known as the Nottingham School of Art) where he was awarded several medals. One of his lace curtain designs was shown at the Great Exhibition of 1851 held at Crystal Palace in London. He worked for many years in the lace-making industry and not until his retirement did he concentrate on his painting which was mostly in watercolours.


In 1901 he bequeathed a large collection of his work to the Nottingham Castle Museum. Oscroft was an early member of the Nottingham Society of Artists and also exhibited at the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists, Dudley Gallery, Nottingham Castle Museum, Royal Academy, Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool. He died at his home in Nottingham leaving an estate valued for probate at more than £800,000 a huge sum in those times.