The rich tradition of British art during the 19th and early 20th centuries produced many talented artists whose work continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today. Among these are Oliver Clare, Arthur Wardle, and Charles Jones, three painters known for their distinctive styles and contributions to British art.
Oliver Clare (1853–1927)
Oliver Clare was a British painter known primarily for his highly detailed still-life works, especially of fruits and flowers. He was the son of the well-known still-life artist George Clare, and his works share many characteristics with his father’s, particularly the attention to minute details and the bright, rich colour palettes. Oliver Clare’s paintings often feature lush, natural arrangements of fruits such as grapes, plums, and apples, placed against dark backgrounds to create striking contrasts. His compositions were skilfully arranged to create a sense of realism and depth, emphasising the texture and freshness of the subjects. Clare exhibited widely during his lifetime, including at the Royal Academy and the Royal Society of British Artists. His works were highly collectable during his life and remain appreciated today for their vivid portrayal of nature’s bounty.
Oliver Clare (1852-1927), an oil painting on canvas still life study.
Price Realised: £446.60
Oliver Clare (1852-1927), an oil painting on canvas still life study.
Price Realised: £548.68
Oliver Clare (1858-1927), an oil painting on canvas still life study.
Price Realised: £548.68
Arthur Wardle (1864–1949)
Arthur Wardle was a renowned British animal painter, recognised for his depictions of both domestic and wild animals, often in naturalistic settings. His work spans a wide range of animal species, including dogs, big cats, and wild animals from across the world. Wardle’s ability to capture the anatomy and personality of animals with remarkable accuracy made him a popular figure in the British art scene. He exhibited his first work at the Royal Academy when he was only sixteen, and he continued to exhibit there throughout his career. In addition to oil paintings, Wardle also worked in watercolours and pastels, excelling in all mediums. His images of animals in dynamic poses and natural environments were admired for their lifelike quality and often showed a blend of traditional realism with a sense of movement and vitality. Wardle was also commissioned to paint portraits of pets, a popular subject among British aristocracy and dog breeders.
Lot 278
Arthur Wardle (1860-1949), an oil painting on canvas.
Price Realised: £6,110.00
Charles Jones (1836–1892)
Charles Jones was a British landscape artist who became known for his tranquil rural scenes, often featuring cattle and other farm animals. Jones specialised in pastoral landscapes, where animals such as sheep and cows would typically graze peacefully in the foreground, with expansive skies and rustic farms or wooded areas in the background. His paintings evoke a sense of the idyllic countryside and are often characterised by a calm, naturalistic atmosphere. Jones exhibited at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy, the British Institution, and the Royal Society of British Artists. His meticulous attention to detail in depicting animals and rural life reflects his deep connection to the British countryside and its agrarian traditions. Though less well-known than some of his contemporaries, Jones’s work is admired for its serene beauty and technical precision, capturing the timelessness of pastoral life.
Lot 267
Charles Jones (1836-1892), an oil painting on canvas.
Price Realised: £3,315.00
Oliver Clare, Arthur Wardle, and Charles Jones each left a unique imprint on British art, capturing the beauty of nature, animals, and rural life with remarkable skill and sensitivity. Clare’s vibrant still life, Wardle’s dynamic animal scenes, and Jones’s serene landscapes continue to evoke a sense of admiration and nostalgia, reflecting their deep connection to the world around them. Their works remain highly collectable, appreciated for their attention to detail and their ability to convey timeless subjects.
Antiques, Fine Art & Collectables | Wednesday 25th September 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Tuesday 24th September 10:00-16:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Newsletter Signup
Newsletter
