Friesian Cow Grazing Oil Painting by George Smith Rsa (Scottish, 1870–1934), Signed, c.1900s Edwardian Impressionist Animal Art, Framed

Details

Description

Friesian Cow Grazing Oil Painting by George Smith RSA (Scottish, 1870–1934), Signed, c.1900s Edwardian Impressionist Animal Art, Framed


Overview
A … Read more Friesian Cow Grazing Oil Painting by George Smith RSA (Scottish, 1870–1934), Signed, c.1900s Edwardian Impressionist Animal Art, Framed


Overview
A beautifully observed portrait of a black-and-white Friesian cow grazing in a farm field—calm, authentic, and full of rural character. This signed Edwardian-era Scottish animal painting is executed in oil on panel/board and presented under a protective glazed front.
Medium: Oil on panel/board, glazed with protective front glass
Subject: Friesian cow grazing in pasture
Period: c.1900s (Edwardian era)
Signature: Signed lower left

Color and Palette
The cow’s coat is built from rich blue-black passages with creamy whites and warm umber/chestnut notes. The surrounding landscape features sage and olive greens, straw yellows, and soft grey-blue tones that create atmosphere and depth.

Composition and Technique
George Smith keeps the composition direct and confident: the cow forms a strong central mass with the head lowered to graze, giving a natural sense of weight and rhythm.
Brushwork: Lively, confident, impressionistic strokes describing hide, muscle, and movement with economy
Tonal design: Bold dark form against lighter pasture for immediate contrast and presence
Surface quality: Textured paint handling that catches the light across the flank and surrounding field
Naturalism: Convincing stance, proportion, and coat pattern from an artist clearly familiar with farm animals

About the Artist
George Smith RSA (1870–1934) was a highly regarded Scottish painter known for landscapes and animal subjects, particularly rural farm life and working animals. Born in Mid Calder, Midlothian, he studied in Edinburgh and later in Antwerp under Charles Verlat. He exhibited widely, including at the Royal Scottish Academy and the Royal Academy, and remains sought after for his ability to capture the spirit and physical presence of animals in authentic settings.
Historical Context
A classic Edwardian rural subject painted at a time when agriculture and livestock were central to Scottish life and identity. Works of this type are valued both for their painterly charm and for their record of a changing world. The cabinet scale makes it especially appealing for collectors assembling curated walls of Scottish and British pictures.
Framing and Verso Details
Presented in a traditional decorative gilt frame that complements the period and subject. The verso bears a workshop trade label for:
John Gibson, Carver, Gilder & Picture Restorer, 112 Bothwell Street, Glasgow
An excellent authenticity detail suggesting professional period framing and/or restoration. Glazed for protection and fitted with hanging thread, ready to display.

Provenance
Retains historic labels and notes verso, including the John Gibson (Glasgow) label
Lindsay Burns & Company (Antique & General), 2023 label dated 2023 and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
These details provide a strong, traceable object history that collectors appreciate.

Dimensions Framed:
Height: 28.5 cm
Width: 37 cm
Depth: 4 cm See less