This early 20th-century oil painting by English artist Ernest Charles Walbourn (1872-1927) depicts an orchard scattered with busy chickens. It’s wonderfully alive and rich with colour.

Here, we see Walbourn’s observation of light - translated into liberal highlights of white dots and dashes. Look at the steps under the tree, which come to life with a quick flash of light. And the chickens in the foreground are given a three-dimensional appearance with tonal adjustments. The more you examine this skilful little piece, the more it gives you.

On the right, there’s a sketch of a steep climb with simple marks and shading. While the distant view along the path is little more than a haze.

Walbourn exhibited at the Royal Academy but this is much looser than his finer works. It’s probably a study ahead of another piece but carries more vivacity as a result.

Stamped and framed. Label on the reverse with provenance and details of catalogue entry.

Learn more about Ernest Charles Walbourn in our directory.

Medium: Oil on board
Overall size: 18” x 14” / 46cm x 36cm
Year of creation: c. 1915
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £12,800 achieved for an oil painting in 1999.