This late 19th-century oil painting by Scottish artist James Alfred Aitken (1846-1897) depicts a harvest scene with hay cart, horse and figures.
Gently lit by the final embers of the day, a cart stands silhouetted against a misty swirl of golden sky. A seated figure rests wearily atop the hay while another stands alongside. The day is almost done. The virtues of rural labour rendered with loose brushwork and tonal mastery.
Aitken trained under Horatio McCulloch, known for his gritty portrayals of rugged scenery. Much like his tutor, many of his works celebrate the sublimity of nature. Imposing highland peaks, turbulent seas, and ominous sullen clouds. But here, there’s tranquillity, a sense of worthy endeavour. The cart is laden and the family rests. Quiet solemnity under a poignant setting sun.
Signed/dated lower right and held within a splendid gilt frame from the period.
Medium: Oil on paper laid on canvas
Overall size: 34” x 26” / 87cm x 66cm
Year of creation: 1881
Provenance: Private collection, Scotland.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £1,900
James Alfred Aitken was an accomplished Scottish landscape painter working predominantly in oils and watercolours. He trained under Horatio McCulloch and became an associate of the Royal Hibernian Academy and a member of the Royal Scottish Association of Painters in Water-Colour. His works are held in numerous public collections including at the Royal Collection Trust.
Learn more about James Alfred Aitken 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 restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
