Artist: Stephen Reid (1873-1948), English School
Title: An Interior Scene with Ladies in Conversation on a Sofa, with a Folding Screen and a Portrait Behind
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: Approx. 20 x 24 inches
Condition Report: The left side of the canvas shows peeling damage, and the figure on the left exhibits cracks and damage.
Provenance: Claydon Auctioneers
Inscription/Signature: Signed lower left; also ascribed to a plaque on the verso.

Description:

This captivating oil painting by Stephen Reid, a noted artist of the English School, portrays an elegant interior scene where two ladies engage in conversation on a sofa. The setting is rich with detail, featuring a decorative folding screen and a portrait in the background, adding layers of depth and context to the composition. Measuring approximately 20 x 24 inches, this work exemplifies Reid's skill in capturing refined social scenes with a keen sense of atmosphere and period detail.

Despite some peeling damage on the left side of the canvas and cracks affecting the figure on the left, the painting retains its overall charm and historical significance. The artist's signature is located in the lower left corner, and the painting is further ascribed on a plaque affixed to the verso.

Acquired from Claydon Auctioneers, this piece is a fine example of Reid's work, offering a glimpse into the genteel world of early 20th-century English society.

About the Artist:

Stephen Reid (1873-1948) was a distinguished British painter and illustrator, known for his detailed and historically informed scenes, often depicting the social and domestic life of his time. Reid studied at the prestigious Heatherley School of Fine Art in London and became known for his illustrations in popular publications as well as his refined oil paintings. His work frequently reflected the Edwardian and Georgian periods, focusing on the elegance and subtleties of human interaction. Reid’s ability to convey narrative through composition and detail made him a celebrated figure in the English art world.