Phyllis with Violin
Artist
James McBey
(Newburgh, Scotland, 1883 - 1959)
SitterSitter is
Phyllis Allan
Date1915
Mediumoil on canvas
ClassificationsMcBey
DimensionsOverall: Height: 70.3 cm, Width: 92.4 cm
Frame: Height: 112.8 cm, Width: 91.6 cm
Frame: Height: 112.8 cm, Width: 91.6 cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1960 by Mrs Marguerite McBey.
Copyright© Aberdeen City Council (McBey Collection)
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG002280
About MeIn 1915 McBey was commissioned to paint this portrait of the young violinist Phyllis Allan (later Lady Langley-Taylor). She was captivated by the artist and for several years sent him publicity photographs of herself and programmes of her performances. Although McBey did not have an ear for music, the technical aspects of stringed instruments fascinated him. He bought her a violin and she performed for him whilst he worked on his etchings.
More About Me
James McBey's love of stringed instruments shown here by the detail of the violin. The sitter was captivated by McBey - can you see this in how she looks at the artist?
Charles Haslewood Shannon
Geoffrey Tibble
Thomas Rowlandson
Associated With/Associated With
