Charles Freeth Oil Painting Portrait of Julia Hasty Nude Figure Early 20th C

An intriguing original oil painting by Charles Freeth (British, active early 20th century) depicting Julia Hasty (1882–1973), a notable theatre enthusiast associated with Stratford-upon-Avon.

The painting portrays the sitter in a seated pose, shown half-length in profile against a dark, understated background. The artist uses subtle tonal variations and delicate modelling to capture the figure, creating an intimate and contemplative portrait.

The reverse bears handwritten details identifying the sitter and providing additional biographical information. Accompanying material includes a photograph of Julia Hasty and a newspaper obituary published in The Stage and Television Today on 13 December 1973, adding an interesting documentary element to the work.

An unusual and characterful piece of British portraiture, suitable for collectors of early 20th-century British art, figurative painting and theatrical history.

Dimensions

* Overall, including frame: 45 × 55 cm (17.72 × 21.65 inches)

* Painting only: 48 × 38 cm (18.90 × 14.96 inches)

Condition

The painting displays signs of age and surface wear consistent with an older artwork. The reverse retains handwritten notes and associated historical material. The frame also shows age-related wear. Please examine all photographs carefully for a full impression of the condition.

Additional Information

The painting is sold as seen. The accompanying material on the reverse forms part of the item’s historical interest. No independent authentication or certificate of authenticity is provided.

A distinctive figurative oil painting with an interesting connection to British theatrical history.

Historical Information & Background

This intriguing figurative oil painting is attributed to Charles Freeth, a British artist believed to have been active in the early 20th century. It depicts Julia Hasty (1882–1973) of Shottery, near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.

According to a handwritten note attached to the reverse, the portrait was painted around 1900, when Julia was approximately 18 years old. The note also states that the artist died before completing the work.

The reverse retains fascinating historical material, including a handwritten account identifying the sitter, an old photograph of Julia Hasty in later life, and a newspaper obituary published in The Stage and Television Today on 13 December 1973.

The obituary describes Julia Hasty as a distinctive personality with strong connections to the British theatre world. Her cottage in Shottery was reportedly a meeting place for theatre professionals, actors and other notable visitors.

These accompanying materials provide an interesting glimpse into the life of the sitter and add considerable historical interest to the painting.

Please note: The historical information above is based on the handwritten note and newspaper material accompanying the painting. The attribution to Charles Freeth and the details concerning the painting’s creation have not been independently verified. No certificate of authenticity is provided. Please refer to the photographs for the painting’s condition and the accompanying historical material.