victorian gentleman - norman macbeth rsa 1873

Portrait of Edinburgh Lawyer

Museum quality oil on canvas portrait of a gentleman by the accomplished Victorian artist Norman Macbeth, RSA (1822 -1888).The sitter is most likely a Senior Partner in an Edinburgh law firm of the time (this work was acquired by us with other works via a prominent Edinburgh law firm). Signed by the artist and dated 1873. The sitters chair is most likely from MacBeths Edinburgh studio as the same fabric pattern can be seen in some of his other portraits of dignitaries around this time.Macbeth's portraits were considered unmistakable likenesses. His works include the portraits of Sir John Steell RSA, acquired by the Royal Scottish Academy and that of the Rev. Dr. Lindsay Alexander acquired by the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.Of large proportion this piece measures (to outer frame ) 130cm x 107cm (51 inches x 42 inches) In excellent untouched and original condition this highly realistic likeness sits in its original Victorian gilt frame which is labelled verso Doig, Wilson & Wheatley, George Street, Edinburgh. The frame is also in excellent condition with original hanging chain in place.
* MacBeth was born at Greenock where his father James Macbeth was an excise official. He served a seven years' apprenticeship as an engraver in Glasgow and then went to London, where he studied at the Royal Academy Schools and copied artworks in the National Gallery He moved on to Paris, where he worked in the Louvre and studied under a master.In 1845 Macbeth established himself as a portrait-painter in Greenock, moving to Glasgow in 1848, and in 1856 again practising in Greenock. Since 1845 he had been a regular contributor to the exhibitions of the Royal Scottish Academy and in 1861 he went to Edinburgh. There he was successful as a portrait-painter, and was elected an Associate Royal Scottish Academician (ARSA) in 1870, and full member in 1880, entitling him to add the letters 'RSA' after his name.About two years before his death Macbeth moved to London. There he represented the Royal Scottish Academy as trustee of theBritish Institution Scholarship Fund. He died there on 27 February 1888.
Complimentary "white glove" delivery service with this piece anywhere Mainland UK. Overseas purchasers please contact us for a shipping quotation.

Antiques.co.uk Ref: CUAVN8Y9G

Maker/Artist:

Norman Macbeth RSA

Materials:

Canvas / Wood

Width (cm):

107

Height (cm):

130

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Room Four

Be it a romantic artefact of the 18th Century or reclaimed 20th Century industrial object the craftsmanship and decorative potential of these hand picked items never go unappreciated at Room Four. We buy what we love and if we were asked to give just one piece of advice when buying antiques, we would recommend doing the same ! Whilst predominately an online business you are welcome to visit our showroom in Glasgow - just contact us beforehand to arrange a visit. Craig and his team look forward to welcoming you !

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