This late 19th-century oil painting by British artist Henry Gillard Glindoni (1852-1913) depicts an older woman by a rustic stone cottage.

Perched upon a creaky wooden bench, she prepares a daily meal. Sat outside in the elements under a typically cloudy British sky. At this time of year, the flora comes alive with new blooms while the climbers extend as far as the top window.

Glindoni was a talented artist and well-admired for his exquisite genre scenes. Most of these include figures in period costume and tend to carry an obvious sense of narrative as if the scene were captured from a performance at Drury Lane. However, as you can see, this piece is entirely more natural, it’s a simple observational work that highlights an everyday moment.

It’s interesting to note that Glindoni was raised by his grandparents and as such would have developed a great respect for his elders. Perhaps, when he happened to wander past this particular woman, it brought back fond memories of his own childhood. He was 40 when he painted it.

Signed/dated lower right and held within a gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 26” x 32” / 66cm x 81cm
Year of creation: 1892
Condition: Artwork presents well. One tidy patched repair. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £11,500

Henry Gillard Glindoni

British artist Henry Gillard Glindoni is predominantly known for his fine genre scenes, which are often theatrical and include figures in period costume. He was trained initially by his grandfather Francis Robert Glindon (1799-1866) and later studied at the Castle Street School of Art. His works are held in numerous public collections.

Learn more about Henry Gillard Glindoni in our directory.