Mademoiselle Querrio, 1921, oil on canvas, 3ft 4in x 2ft 6in (1.02m x 76cm). One of the works by Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn on offer at Messums.
It is almost impossible to discuss artist Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn (1870-1951), the focus of an upcoming exhibition at Messums, without mentioning his more famous friend John Singer Sargent (1856-1925).
The show, which runs from February 7-March 1, examines de Glehn on his own terms, bringing together 60 works from his studio estate.
Still, the St James’s, London, gallery acknowledges that he was known mainly through his association with Sargent.
After all, many will have encountered de Glehn primarily through images Sargent made of the artist and his wife on honeymoon in Italy. The three were inveterate travellers and would strike off to Europe together, often with a large entourage, setting up easels wherever they went.
Barbara (Nude Study), oil on canvas, 2ft x 20in (61 x 51cm). One of the works by Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn on offer at Messums.
It is an engaging image of a bohemian life. De Glehn was one of the British Impressionists, a lover of the arts including music and literature, and saw the world shift from the late 19th century to the world of 20th century Modernism.
As well as capturing the landscapes he travelled through, he produced high-society portraits until the start of the Second World War when tastes shifted.
Revived reputation
The Court of the Palazzo Ducale, Venice, watercolour, 15 x 19in (40 x 50cm). One of the works by Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn on offer at Messums.
Messums started championing de Glehn 30 years ago with its exhibition A Painter’s Journey. According to the gallery, this focus on the artist, including Messums’ other exhibitions and publications, has helped revive de Glehn’s reputation as an artist in his own right.
In An Artist’s Journey Revisited, it highlights some of his portraits and many pictures from his travels, including those of Venice, Tuscany, Corfu, Spain and – from the artist’s retirement – Wiltshire.
Further emphasising his own artistic sensibilities, this exhibition offers a selection of works painted when the artist was still studying, prior to meeting Sargent.
Prices range from £1650-6850 for watercolours and £6850-65,000 for oils.
