This picturesque 20th-century oil painting by British artist Alan Witney (1914-1996) depicts a view from the North Downs in Kent.
Witney’s early years were spent in India where his father worked as a Christian missionary. One can imagine that the rich intense sunsets made quite an impression on him. In 1924, he moved to London with his mother and siblings and by the age of 25, he was employed as an art master in Bournemouth on the south coast.
Here, in a work completed in the 1960s, he’s captured a charming view from the North Downs in Kent. At this point in his career, he was probably living in Kent with his wife Margaret. The pair were married in Sevenoaks.
He was a skilful painter, making this complex little piece appear effortless. Note the variation of tones and clever composition with its framing trees to guide the eyes.
Signed in the lower right and framed.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 22” x 18” / 56cm x 46cm
Year of creation: c. 1965
Labels & Inscriptions: Label with title on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, England.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Alan Witney was an accomplished British artist predominantly known for producing popular Chiltern landscapes in an expressive style. He was born in India but moved to London early in life, settling in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, in his later years. Alongside his career as a painter, he also taught art in schools. His works were shown in numerous London galleries.
Learn more about Alan Witney in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
