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Deer

Artist (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1801 - 1870)
Date1854
Mediumoil on panel
ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings
DimensionsOverall: Height: 45.6 cm, Width: 61 cm
Frame: Height: 69.9 cm, Width: 85.1 cm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1893 by Francis Edmond.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationOn Display - Gallery 09
Object numberABDAG002421
About MeJames Giles' deer studies are deeply rooted in observation and the writer of his obituary remarked that, as an animal painter, he was equalled only by Landseer. This type of subject fell out of favour in the 20th century, but was highly popular with the Victorians and from about 1840 onwards it was a genre in which Giles became something of a specialist.

As part of Aberdeen Art Gallery’s plus music playlists, Art Chat is an engaging series of short audio interpretations offering children’s perspectives of individual artworks. Young peoples’ voices are an integral part of the community and we wanted to offer primary aged learners the opportunity to voice their thoughts and opinions about a selection of artworks from the Aberdeen Art Gallery collection.

Learners from Aberdeen’s Manor Park School took part in discussions and activities to look for themes, symbols and clues within a selection of artworks. Learners were given the opportunity to work co-operatively with their classmates and gallery staff to explore their thoughts and feelings by responding to real works of art at Aberdeen Treasure Hub. These activities supported creative skills and helped to build learners’ confidence in talking about art.

Alongside the image of this object you can now listen to their interpretation of Giles' work.


ADOPT AN ARTWORK. This artwork is available for Adoption. To find out more please email AAGMSupport-Us@aberdeencity.gov.uk
More About Me
The Scottish Highlands became very popular during the reign of Queen Victoria. Studies of deer were very fashionable. Do you like the painting? Is it ‘Oh, deer!’ or ‘Oh dear!’?
Exhibitions