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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD
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https://www.decorativecollective.com/dealers/cheshire-antiques-consultant-ltdItem Details
Oil Realist Portrait of Mary with Cairn Terriers
In the Manner of Sir Harrington Mann (1864–1937)
Subject & Medium
A tender and atmospheric oil-on-canvas portrait of Mary, a young girl accompanied by her two Cairn Terriers. Painted circa 1940, this work reflects the warmth and refinement of early twentieth-century British domestic portraiture. Soft, natural light and a harmonious pastel palette capture the affectionate bond between child and pets with disarming sweetness.
The Cairn Terriers—closely associated with Britain’s royal household during the 1930s–40s—add a note of playful companionship, heightening the nostalgic charm and sentimental grace typical of interwar portraiture.
Mary’s features are modelled with delicacy: luminous skin tones, soft curls, and an introspective gaze that feels quietly poetic. The overall effect is one of innocence, tenderness, and emotional depth.
Composition & Technique
The composition centres on Mary’s serene expression. Her soft blue eyes, gentle blush, and slightly parted lips convey an intimate, contemplative mood. She appears thoughtful and composed, offering the viewer a moment of emotional stillness.
Her pose reinforces this subtle narrative:
She cradles one Cairn Terrier protectively in her lap
The second terrier rests in the foreground, full of character and personality
Her posture is upright yet relaxed, suggesting poise and quiet confidence
The artist’s use of diffused light, subdued tonal balance, and harmonious colour relationships recalls the tradition of Sir Harrington Mann—particularly his elegance, compositional restraint, and romantic realism. The terriers’ coats are rendered with lively, expressive brushwork, providing a pleasing contrast to the softly modelled features of the sitter.
Inscription and Attribution
Unsigned. Inscribed verso:
“MARY by C.H.W.”
This inscription indicates the work of a professional or studio-trained British artist active around the 1940s.
Although unsigned, the painting can be attributed more broadly to a trained British artist working in the manner of Sir Harrington Mann. It exhibits:
Soft, diffused natural light
Pastel harmonies and refined colour transitions
Graceful modelling with a balanced composition
Emotional tenderness combined with poised realism
These qualities strongly reflect the romantic, refined portraiture characteristic of British art in the interwar era.
About the Artist (In the Manner of Sir Harrington Mann)
Sir Harrington Mann (1864–1937) was a distinguished British portraitist whose work combined Glasgow School influences with luminous colour, delicate brushwork, and emotional intimacy. His portraits of children are especially admired for their grace, warmth, and subtle decorative charm.
This painting echoes Mann’s aesthetic with notable fidelity: soft harmonies, gentle light, and a poised, contemplative emotional tone.
Frame and Dimensions
Frame dimensions: 68 cm (H) × 58 cm (W) × 2.5 cm (D)
Presented in a classic gilt frame with a decorative inner moulding. The warm golden tones of the frame enhance the painting’s luminous highlights and pastel palette. Ready to hang.
Provenance
Private collection
From a fine art dealer’s collection, Wales
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Exhibited
“Portraits of Innocence: In the Manner of Harrington Mann — A Study of Childhood and Companionship in Early 20th-Century British Art”
Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire, Autumn 2025
Credit line: Lent by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Why You’ll Love It
Emotionally expressive: a tender, introspective portrait full of warmth
Charming subject: beautifully painted child with characterful Cairn Terriers
Refined style: in the manner of Harrington Mann, with soft pastel tones and elegant handling
Decorative and elegant: a radiant piece that enhances both traditional and contemporary interiors
Display-ready: attractively framed and immediately enjoyable on the wall
Condition Report
Painting:
Stable, even craquelure consistent with age
Areas of foxing and age-related surface marks
Excellent colour retention with soft, atmospheric tonal quality
No evidence of overcleaning
Canvas structurally sound overall
Frame:
Good vintage condition with general age-related wear
Some small chips, losses and minor overpainting in places
Presents very well and ready to hang
Overall: Acceptable condition with excellent aesthetic presence.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available.
The painting will be professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.
How to Purchase
Use the Buy It Now option to secure this charming portrait before it is sold. Add this distinctive and endearing work of British portraiture to your collection today.
Explore our gallery, Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, to discover more hand-picked fine art and decorative treasures.
Questions or further details required?
Please feel free to send us a message with any enquiries about this piece.
- Period: 1940
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- Price: £8,500.00
- €9,713 Euro
- $11,344 US Dollar
- Location: London
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- Dimensions: H: 68cm (26.77in)
- W: 58cm (22.83in)
- D: 2.5cm (0.98in)
