Images(2)

Portrait of a Young Woman

Artist James Cromar Watt (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)

Date1900

Object NamePlaque

Mediumwood, enamel on copper

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsW: 10.5cm x H:14.5cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 2010 with assistance from the Art Fund and the National Fund for Acquisitions.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG011389

Keywords

About MeJames Cromar Watt (1862- 1940) was an Aberdeen born architect, designer, jeweller and enameller who dedicated his life to the promotion of the arts in the North East of Scotland.

This framed enamel portrait panel on copper, by James Cromar Watt depicts a young woman shown in profile against a light blue background, a rose bush in bloom and butterflies. The girl wears a full-sleeved blouse under a wine coloured tunic with an embroidered yoke, which clearly shows Watt's interest in mediaeval and renaissance sources.

In this portrait Watt exploits various enamel techniques, notably foiling, grisaille and paillons.

The parapet features the Roman numerals MD CCCC which dates the portrait to 1900. The portrait is mounted in a dark stained wood frame, which is original to the portrait.

It is understood that this piece was exhibited in the Aberdeen Artists' Society exhibitions at Aberdeen Art Gallery. The label on the reverse of the frame, although incomplete, reads, "Aberdeen Artists Society// James Cromar Watt// 71 Dee Street, Aberdeen// Portrait", in Watt's handwriting.
More About Me

Collections Wall

The work depicts a young woman shown in profile against a light blue background, a rose bush in bloom and butterflies. In this portrait Watt exploits various enamel techniques. Can you name any?