Samuel Melton Fisher (1860-1939)
| Artist Name | Samuel Melton Fisher (1860-1939) |
|---|---|
| Title | Portrait of Elizabeth Ann Rodd |
| Description | This superb British Edwardian Impressionist portrait oil painting is by noted artist Samuel Melton Fisher. Painted circa 1910 is a generous head and shoulders portrait of Elizabeth Ann Rodd nee Thompson. She was married to Cornishman Major James Rennell Rodd (1812-1892) of the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry. Her father was Anthony Todd Thomson (1778-1849) a Scottish doctor and pioneer of dermatology. Her mother was Katherine Byerley, a prolific writer and historian whose pseudonym was Grace Wharton. Elizabeth, the sitter and James had only one son, (one wonders how many other children she had who didn't survive) James Rennell Rodd (1858-1941) 1st Baron Rennell GCB, GCMB, GCVO, PC, known as Sir Rennell Rodd prior to 1933, he was a British diplomat, poet and politician. This impressive portrait of Elizabeth shows her dressed in black with black lace at her neck line and on her head. She is wearing a chain and has dark red flowers as a cortage. Her grey hair hints at her age and her face has a kindly expression as if she is more than familiar with patience. The dark background is reminiscent of Whistler portraits and enhances her soft, warm skin tones. The impressionistic brushwork and details are superb. This is a stunning Edwardian portrait and an excellent example of Fisher's work. Signed upper left. Sitter's name plate on frame. |
| Provenance | Label verso. |
| Medium | Oil on Canvas |
| Size | 25 x 30 inches |
| Frame | Housed within a gilt Watts style frame. Framed size is 37 inches by 32 inches and in good condition. |
| Condition | Good condition. |
| Biography | Samuel Melton Fisher (1860-1939) was an English painter of portraits, genre and figurative subjects. He was a regular exhibitor at the Royal Academy from 1878 and at the RBA and the Grosvenor Gallery. His portrait sitters included Florence Leyland (1859-1921), later Mrs Prinsep. He was invited to exhibit at the International Society of Sculptors, Painters and Gravers when JW was President in 1898. |
| Price | £8000 |
