This early 20th-century oil painting by British artist Madeline Graham Barker (1886-1974) depicts an elderly lady dressed in widow’s weeds. It’s probably the artist’s grandmother, Susanna H Chapple.

Perched in a particularly floral corner of the family home, she rests in full mourning wear. A photograph hangs on the wall alongside her - perhaps of her daughter Lucy or herself earlier in life. She carries a knowing expression, she’s seen it all. A wise connoisseur of society and a lady of means.

The portrait was produced in 1923 but on the reverse, there’s an inscription of 1908, which could relate to the date of the original image. At the time, Susanna would’ve been 87 years old. In 1922, Barker exhibited a work titled ‘Nan’ at the Royal Academy, so this is possibly a copy produced for another family member.

Barker was an intriguing artist who, following the death of her father, was raised by her mother and grandmother. It’s said that her family were against her pursuing a career in the arts, so it’s interesting to consider how her gran felt about having her portrait displayed in such a distinguished environment. Rather proud one would assume.

A touching decorative work. Lovingly portrayed.

Signed and dated.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 18” x 24” / 46cm x 61cm
Year of creation: 1923
Labels & Inscriptions: Various inscriptions on the reverse including one referring to a date of 1908.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable.
Artist’s auction maximum: £4,000

Madeline Graham Barker

Madeline Graham Barker trained at RA Schools. She exhibited locally and nationally including at least seven works at the RA.

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