Oil Realist Portrait of Mary with Cairn Terriers

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Description

Oil Realist Portrait of Mary with Cairn Terriers
In the Manner of Sir Harrington Mann (1864–1937)
Subject & Medium
A tender and atmospheric 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—introduce a note of playful companionship, enhancing the nostalgic charm and sentimental character typical of interwar portraiture.
Executed in oil on canvas, the artist has modelled Mary’s features with delicacy: luminous skin tones, soft curls, and an introspective gaze that feels quietly poetic. The work radiates 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 stillness and quiet reflection.
Her pose reinforces this subtle storytelling:
She cradles one terrier protectively in her lap
The second terrier rests in the foreground, full of character and alertness
Her posture is upright yet relaxed, suggesting poise, good breeding and quiet confidence
The artist’s use of diffused light, subdued tonal balance and harmonious colours echoes the Harrington Mann tradition—notably his elegance, compositional restraint and romantic realism. The terriers’ coats are rendered with lively, expressive brushwork, beautifully contrasting with Mary’s softly modelled features and smooth flesh tones.
Inscription & Attribution
Unsigned on the front. Inscribed verso:
“MARY by C.H.W.”
This indicates the work of a professional or studio-trained British artist active around the 1940s.
Although unsigned, the inscription and quality suggest a trained British painter working in the manner of Sir Harrington Mann. The painting demonstrates:
Soft, diffused natural light
Pastel harmonies and refined colour transitions
Graceful modelling and balanced composition
Emotional tenderness and poised realism
These qualities closely 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 portraitist whose work combined Glasgow School influences with luminous colour, delicate brushwork and emotional intimacy. His portraits of children are particularly admired for their grace, warmth and subtle decorative charm.
This painting echoes Mann’s aesthetic with notable fidelity—soft harmonies, gentle light and a composed, lyrical emotional tone.
Frame & Dimensions
Frame dimensions:
Height: 68 cm
Width: 58 cm
Depth: 2.5 cm
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 and immediately presentable in a traditional or contemporary interior.
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”, Famous 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 and character
Charming subject: beautifully painted child with two Cairn Terriers, full of personality
Refined style: in the manner of Harrington Mann, with soft pastel tones and gentle light
Decorative and elegant: a radiant piece that enhances any sitting room, hallway, study or bedroom
Display-ready: attractively framed and ready to hang, requiring no further work
Condition Report
Painting:
Stable, even craquelure consistent with age
Foxing and light staining in places
Excellent colour retention with soft, atmospheric tonal quality
No signs of over-cleaning
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 original condition with excellent aesthetic presence and display appeal.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.


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Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD operates on a Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis which means that the International buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes & customs which may be necessary to release an order from international customs.
Following the UK leaving the EU on 1st January 2021 (BREXIT) there have been some changes to customs & duty charges for EU customers. Tax and import duty varies from country to country so we recommend you check with your local tax office to see if any fees will be payable.
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Date1940s : 1940 Codeas1013a1288 Price £8500.00     9737.60     $11367.05    The price has been listed in British Pounds.
Conversion rates as of 4/DEC/2025.
Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer.
StatusFor Sale SellerCheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd Telephone07494 763382Non UK callers :+44 7494 763382 Emailcheshireantiquesconsultant@gmail.com

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