A characterful portrait of a seated gentleman by Scottish painter, George Wright Hall (1895-1974). He looks towards us through thin-rimmed spectacles, his heavy moustache drooping under a prominent Roman nose.

Note how the body is a mere suggestion of form. It’s possibly a portrait study yet it bears a full signature.

Little is known about Wright Hall but he was probably influenced by the Scottish Colourists who were well-known when he was honing his skills. Aside from his portraiture, which generally featured simple muted tones, he also painted colourful still lifes and landscapes such as this: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-2077100

The style of this portrait reminds us a little of the early work of Samuel John Peploe (1871-1935).

The portrait is signed/dated in the lower right and housed within a period frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 24½” x 28½” / 62cm x 72cm
Year of creation: 1923
Provenance: England
Condition: Canvas in good condition following a light restoration. Frame a little fragile with some age-related wear including cracking.