Mary Sophia Hagarty, Porlock Weir

Mary Sophia Hagarty, Porlock WeirThis charming late 19th century watercolour by Canadian artist Mary S Hagarty (1857 1936) depicts a scene at Porlock Weir, Somerset. Hagarty was an accomplished painter watercolourist predominantly known for landscapes. Leaning on a rickety cart, she holds the reins of a weary donkey, while conversing with an older woman over a stone wall. Beyond, a thatched building, perhaps an inn, with a glimpse of the Bristol Channel further on. Its a passing

she strikes an interesting form

for the majority of his life

trained at the Munich Art Academy and worked in and around the City for most of his life

Could it be a self-portrait even

when back in Denmark

A portrait of his wife and child hangs by a grand piano - while another probably depicts the couple together

Note how the light falls on the apple in the lower left - quite sublime

His oeuvre is traditional in style and illustrates passing moments within humble cottages and farmhouses

Windows and doorways generally form a component of his compositions - the partially obscured light creating atmospheric effects

This enchanting 19th-century landscape painting by Danish artist Peter Busch (1861-1942) depicts a tranquil river within a majestic wood

he debuted at the Royal Academy in London

Ascending beyond view