1. Attributed To James Sant (British 1820-1916), ‘Portrait of Constance, Lady Strachie (1855 - 1936)’

Lot 51, the Portrait of Constance, Lady Strachie, immediately captivates viewers with its rich, dark hues and a beautiful young girl seated beneath the sun rays that illuminate her image. This is a young girl who has wandered among flowers, yet her expression is one of strength and courage. She engages the viewer with a direct and compelling gaze, exuding a sense of confidence that transcends her youthful charm. Positioned among beautiful branches of golden leaves and freshly gathered blooms, her presence commands the composition, highlighting her character and individuality.

2. Sania Bakhtiarova (Russian B.1949), ‘Portrait of a Girl’

Sania Bakhtiarova represents a generation of Soviet painters who adhered to the principles of Social Realism, often portraying domestic and family-oriented images of women. However, in her Portrait of a Girl (Lot 101), Bakhtiarova captures a sense of deep contemplation or daydreaming on the subject’s face. Using loose, expressive strokes, she conveys a moment that seems to drift from the girl’s own thoughts. While the drawing is beautifully rendered, its strength lies not in the formal depiction of the girl, but in the psychological depth of her character.

3. Sir Jacob Epstein (American /British 1880-1959), ‘Study of Jackie’

Sir Jacob Epstein is a renowned figure in the history of Modern British Art, celebrated for his mastery of staying true to material and form. His portraits are particularly noted for their authentic portrayal of character and psychological depth. In Study of Jackie (Lot 95), the young girl serves as the sitter, and her cheerful expression invites an immediate smile. Epstein's keen interest in capturing character and emotion is evident, which contributed to the revolutionary nature of his work during his time. It is a true testament to his skill to unveil the emotions of a young girl seated before him. The presented work, executed in pencil, is not only quintessentially ‘Epstein’, but also a very bright image filled with light coming from Jackie’s smile.

4. After Carlo Dolci, ‘The Penitent Magdalene’

Mary Magdalene is one of the most cherished female figures in Old Master paintings. Her journey as a fallen woman who seeks redemption has resonated with generations. In The Penitent Magdalene (Lot 24), the artist captures an expression of deep devotion, portraying not just a Biblical figure, but a woman of profound faith the image of which becomes almost an epitome for every woman. The tender gesture of her hand cradling a jar of oil, combined with her uplifted gaze, evokes a sombre yet touching sentiment. Executed masterfully in oil, the use of chiaroscuro highlights the figure's radiant face, adding depth and emotion to the work.

5. After Alexej Von Jawlensky, ‘Portrait of a Spanish Lady’

In a strikingly different image of female portraiture, this abstract work depicts a Spanish lady with its use of vibrant colours and sharp contrasts. Whilst the name and story of the lady in Portrait of a Spanish Lady (Lot 109) remains unknown, she appears with a torso adorned in traditional attire, her head crowned with bright flowers. The distinctive peineta and mantilla suggest her Spanish heritage, evoking a sense of cultural identity. Her gaze, turned slightly to the side, invites viewers to ponder the world beyond the frame. The bold colour contrasts and angular shapes of her form suggest a character all her own—a modern woman confidently embracing her national dress.

Auction Details

Thursday 3 October, 10.30am BST
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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