Henry Tanworth Wells RA (British, 1828–1903) Henry Tanworth Wells RA 1888 Portrait of Eleanor Elizabeth Boyce Oil Painting

A fine Victorian oil portrait by Henry Tanworth Wells RA (1828–1903), depicting Eleanor Elizabeth Boyce (1836–1917), daughter of Frederick Henry Ridley.

This distinguished portrait, signed with the artist’s monogram and dated 1888, depicts a seated lady dressed in elegant Victorian attire, wearing a dark gown with delicate white lace detailing and a lace-trimmed bonnet. The sitter is portrayed against a rich, warm reddish-brown background, with the artist capturing her composed expression and the textures of her clothing through confident brushwork.

The painting is presented in a later moulded gilt frame that complements the portrait beautifully and enhances its traditional Victorian character.

About the Artist

Henry Tanworth Wells RA was a respected British painter of the 19th century. He began his artistic career as a miniature painter before establishing himself as a painter of full-scale oil portraits, landscapes and genre scenes.

A friend of members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the husband of artist Joanna Boyce, Wells was closely connected with the artistic circles of Victorian Britain. He was elected a Royal Academician and contributed to the administration of the Royal Academy of Arts, notably serving as Duty President in 1895.

This portrait has a particularly interesting family connection: the sitter, Eleanor Elizabeth Boyce, was related to Wells through his wife Joanna Boyce, being the wife of Joanna’s brother Matthias.

Provenance

* Private collection, Ynys Môn, Wales.

* Original label retained on the reverse.

* Artist’s monogram and date, 1888.

* Historical inscriptions and markings to the reverse.

Dimensions

Including frame:

* 82 × 98 cm

* 32.3 × 38.6 inches

Painting only:

* 70 × 85 cm

* 27.6 × 33.5 inches

Condition

The painting displays signs of age consistent with a Victorian oil painting. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description. The frame is later and shows signs of age and wear.

Please note that the frame is included with the painting and may have age-related imperfections.

A Note for Collectors

An appealing Victorian portrait with a documented sitter, a date of 1888 and an original label on the reverse. Its connection to the Boyce and Wells artistic family adds historical interest, making it a distinctive addition to a collection of British Victorian portraiture or a traditional interior.

Please review all photographs carefully before purchasing. The painting is sold as an antique artwork, with no independent authentication or certificate of authenticity provided.