This mid-20th-century oil painting by Scottish artist James Torrington Bell (1892-1970) depicts a wooded view in Autumn with nearby dwellings. It’s a picturesque scene, which evokes the crunch of golden leaves and the sprawl of long shadows.

James Torrington Bell was an accomplished landscape painter particularly admired for capturing the picturesque rolling views of Angus. Often travelling to locations on bike, with an easel strapped to his back, he tackled expansive lochs, winding tree-lined tracks, and dense woodlands with equal aplomb. His approach was broadly traditional but laid down in bold marks with confident colouring. In this respect, it’s reminiscent of James McIntosh Patrick OBE RSA, his local contemporary.

Bell was a keen contributor to the development of the arts and often gave lectures including at the Arbroath Art Society. Topics such as “Outdoor Sketching” and “The Art Of Seeing” were enthusiastically received. Alongside his artistic career, he worked as a bank manager and was also a keen golfer. He trained at the Edinburgh College of Art and exhibited at both the Royal Academy and Royal Scottish Academy.

Signed lower right and framed.

Learn more about James Torrington Bell in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 35½” x 30½” / 90cm x 78cm
Year of creation: c. 1940
Provenance: Private collection, Scotland.
Condition: Assessed and approved by our conservator.
Our reference: BRV1795