James Holmes

A charming and highly collectible early Victorian watercolour by the celebrated British portrait painter James Holmes (1777–1860), depicting two beautifully dressed young children engaged in play within an elegant interior.

The composition perfectly captures the innocence and refinement of childhood during the early Victorian period. One child sits upon a striped footstool holding a toy riding crop, while the other stands beside an upholstered chair with a skipping rope. Holmes’ delicate handling of facial features, costume details and soft architectural background demonstrates the refined portrait style for which he became renowned.

Executed in watercolour with white bodycolour highlights, the painting retains its subtle palette and gentle atmosphere, making it an excellent decorative and investment piece for collectors of British portraiture.

Signed and dated “J. Holmes 1838” lower right.

Presented in an impressive period gilt frame with ornate scrolling decoration.

Dimensions

Visible artwork

30 × 37 cm

11.8 × 14.6 inches

Overall framed size

48 × 55 cm

18.9 × 21.7 inches

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Condition

Presented in good antique condition consistent with age.

* Watercolour displays expected age-related toning and light foxing.

* Signed and dated lower right.

* Original antique gilt frame with age-related wear, losses and restoration to the decorative moulding, as shown in the photographs.

* Glazed.

* Please study all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

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Why Collect James Holmes?

James Holmes was one of Britain’s respected portrait painters during the late Georgian and early Victorian periods, exhibiting regularly at the Royal Academy and becoming particularly admired for his sensitive portraits of children. His works are represented in numerous British public collections and continue to be sought after by collectors of nineteenth-century British art.