oil on board framed

image size 42cm x 24cm, overall size 47cm x 28.5cm

Note: Anne Redpath was the first woman painter to become a member of the Royal Scottish Academy in 1952. In 1955 she was awarded the O.B.E. and received an Honorary LL.D. from Edinburgh University. During her lifetime, Anne Redpath won recognition and fame, but she will be remembered not only for her distinction as a painter but for the warmth and charm of her personality. Redpath returned to live in the Scottish borders in 1934 and continued to raise her three sons. It was at this time that she started painting again after a long sabbatical. The original oil on panel on offer here was part of a headboard which was almost certainly painted by Redpath during this period. The bed was acquired as part of house and contents which was occupied by Redpath. Times were hard for Redpath in the 30’s when she had returned from many years living in France with few possessions and we believe she used her skills as a painter to decorate pieces of furniture for herself and others, bringing new life into the interiors which they occupied. These works are executed in a contemporary illustrative style. On the 17th July 2010 (Lot 409) an old pine dresser from the estate of artist (and friend of Anne Redpath) John McNairn, painted by Redpath was sold by Lyon & Turnbull. The dresser was hand painted in the same illustrative style as the work offered here. The panels from this tired piece of furniture were removed and professionally restored before being offered in various auctions by McTear’s in May and September of 2012.