This mid-20th-century oil painting by British artist Walter Herbert Allcott (1880-1951) depicts a ‘Colin, Aged 9’.
In the top right, a winged emblem is accompanied by the motto ‘Per Ardua ad Alta’, which could relate to the University of Birmingham. It translates as ‘through hard work, great things are achieved’ - perfect for an aspiring scholar.
Alternatively, it could be a misquote of ‘Per Ardua ad Astra’, which is the official motto of the Royal Air Force. This, however, seems unlikely, especially given that Allcott was a proud Brummie.
Hailing from Ladywood in Birmingham, he was trained at the city’s School of Art and soon debuted at an exhibition by the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists. Over the course of his career, over 200 works were shown at the Society and he became well-regarded, particularly as a landscape painter. Despite moving away in 1919, and numerous study trips abroad, it’s clear that Birmingham was home.
It’s a splendid portrait of a debonair young chap.
Signed in the lower right, dated in the top left, and framed.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 21½” x 25½” / 55cm x 65cm
Year of creation: 1942
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed in the top left. Reeves & Sons supplier's stamp on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, England.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Walter Herbert Allcott was a British artist predominantly known for his landscapes, particularly those undertaken on European tours. He also produced portraits. Hailing from Birmingham, he was highly regarded locally while also exhibiting in London and Liverpool. The Birmingham City Museum and Art Gallery holds examples of his work.
Learn more about Walter Herbert Allcott 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 often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
