N. Chalmers, Still Life with Fruit and Wine, 1921, Watercolour

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A finely executed british school still life watercolour by n. Chalmers, signed and dated 1921, depicting an elegant tabletop arrangement … Read more A finely executed british school still life watercolour by n. Chalmers, signed and dated 1921, depicting an elegant tabletop arrangement of fruit, wine and bread. The composition centres upon a classical pedestal fruit bowl filled with apples and other fruit, accompanied by a dark wine bottle and a partially filled wine glass. A sliced apple rests to the right, introducing an informal naturalistic element to the carefully balanced arrangement. Chalmers demonstrates accomplished handling of watercolour, using subtle tonal gradations, delicate washes and carefully observed highlights to convey the reflective glass, fruit, ceramic bowl and softly draped background. The restrained palette and considered composition give the work an attractive sense of calm characteristic of traditional early 20th-century still-life painting. Signed n. Chalmers lower right and dated 1921, the work is presented beneath glass within a broad gilt mount and decorative gilt frame, creating a particularly elegant period presentation. The watercolour remains in very good vintage condition, with light age-related toning and no significant visible tears or losses. Some surface dulling appears attributable to dust beneath the glazing. The gilt frame displays minor wear and patination consistent with age. A sophisticated and highly decorative example of early 20th-century british still-life painting, equally suited to a traditional collection or contemporary interior. Artist n. Chalmers, british school date 1921 materials watercolour on paper, glass and gilt frame measurements height: 45 cm / 17.7 in width: 64 cm / 25.2 in depth: approximately 2.5 cm / 1 in painting: 28 cm h × 49 cm w / 11 in h × 19.3 in w See less