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Sir John Watson Gordon (1788-1864) Oil c. 1844

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:750.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,500.00 USD
Sir John Watson Gordon (1788-1864) Oil c. 1844
Featured in this lot is this original Sir John Watson Gordon (1788-1864) painting titled, "Lady In White" made in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1844. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on October 17, 1788, and displayed artistic talent at a young age. He initially majored in law at the University of Edinburgh before switching to art and enrolling at the Trustees' Academy there. Gordon made a name for himself as a talented portrait painter, earning praise for his aptitude for capturing the likeness and personality of his subjects. He specialized in oil painting on canvas and was renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to convey a sense of naturalism and realism in his portraits, and his mastery of the medium. Gordon received numerous commissions from notable people throughout his career, including royalty, politicians, and members of society. Sir Walter Scott, Queen Victoria, and many other well-known people of the time were among his subjects. He was regarded as the leading portrait painter in Scotland during the 19th century. Gordon participated actively in the Scottish art scene. In 1826, he joined the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA), and from 1850 until his passing in 1864, he supervised the organization as its president. He was a key contributor to the shaping of Scottish art during his lifetime and helped make the RSA a leading organization for the promotion of the visual arts in Scotland. Technical mastery, attention to detail, and the capacity to convey the personality of his subjects are the characteristics of Sir John Watson Gordon's artwork. His portraits can be found in a number of collections and exhibition spaces, including Scotland's National Galleries. One of Scotland's most accomplished portrait painters, Gordon is remembered for his talented work. The painting shows a woman dressed in an all white dress as she sits on a chair posing for the painting. She is wearing white gloves, a few bracelets and holds a small bouquet of flowers under her right hand. The woman has a slight smile on her face and looks directly towards the viewer. The painting shows amazing attention to detail and beautiful contrasts between the colors. The painting is set in a large, gold frame with a gold colored plaque accompanying the piece. The plaque has fallen off but reads, "Sir John Watson Gordon / 1788-1864 / Lady In White, Edinburgh, 1844". The painting shows good condition overall with some white streaks present on the left and right side but no obvious signs of damage are present. The frame shows good condition as well with some slight wear and tear from it use but no obvious signs of damage are noted. The visible painting measures 49" L x 38 3/4" W, while the entire piece measures 55 7/8" L x 45 5/8" W.