This early 20th-century watercolour by British artist Henry Gillard Glindoni (1852-1913) depicts a passing encounter between two old friends.

“And perhaps another game of cards?” he said, walking away.
“But with a different outcome!” came the reply.

Glindoni’s mesmerising works represent his passion for the theatre. Within each, he alludes to a story. He paints 17th-century court scenes, 18th-century romantic entanglements, and here, early 19th-century camaraderie. Very rarely did he paint his own generation.

Note the handling of the outfits, which date to around 1800. Exceptionally detailed. While the deft rendering of flora in the lower right adds balance and guides the eye. Exquisite draughtsmanship coupled with a keen understanding of colour. He was trained by his grandfather, Francis Robert Glindon (1799-1866), who worked for the theatre as a scene painter.

Signed in the lower left, glazed and framed.

Medium: Watercolour and bodycolour on paper
Overall size: 32½” x 26½” / 82cm x 67cm
Year of creation: c. 1910
Provenance: Private collection, England.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £11,500
Our reference: BRV1573

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 costumes. 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.

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