Alexander Jamieson (Scottish, 1873–1937)
Often referred to by contemporary critics as the “Scottish Manet,” Alexander Jamieson was a highly influential painter of landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits, celebrated for bringing a distinct, robust Impressionistic style to the British art scene.
Born in Glasgow, Jamieson initially studied at the Glasgow School of Art during its golden era. In 1898, he won the prestigious Haldane Scholarship, which allowed him to travel to Paris. It was here that he absorbed the direct, en plein air techniques of the French Impressionists. His time in France left a permanent mark on his artistic sensibilities, leading to a lifelong fascination with French architecture, parks, and notably, the historic palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau.
Upon returning to Great Britain, Jamieson settled in England, eventually establishing his home and studio in the picturesque village of Weston Turville, Buckinghamshire. He became a prominent fixture in the London art world, exhibiting widely at: The Royal Academy (RA), The Royal Scottish Academy (RSA), The New English Art Club (NEAC), The International Society of Sculptors, Painters and Gravers
During the First World War, Jamieson served with distinction as a Quartermaster in the York and Lancaster Regiment. Post-war, he returned to his easel with renewed vigor, capturing the English and French countryside with bold color harmonies and a distinctive, painterly handling of light.
Today, Jamieson’s work is highly regarded by collectors of British Impressionism, and his paintings are held in prestigious public institutions, including the Tate Collection, the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre, and the Oxford City Heritage Collection.
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Description
Alexander Jamieson (Scottish, 1873–1937)
This painting is a superb, highly characteristic example of early 20th-century British Impressionism, capturing the atmospheric, sun-dappled grandeur of the gardens at Versailles—a deeply favoured subject of the renowned Scottish Impressionist Alexander Jamieson. The oil on board painting centres on an ornate fountain, where sculpted sea-horses rise from the water beneath a classical figurative tier, set against a rich backdrop of warm, autumnal foliage.
Executed with Jamieson’s characteristically confident, fluid brushwork. Preserved on the reverse is a historical note documenting its direct purchase in 1996 from Miss J. Smith—the companion of Jamieson’s daughter, Catherine—straight from the artist’s former studio at Weston Turville, Buckinghamshire.
Condition: Painting – Very good antique condition, the only thing to note is there appears to be some small scratching to the surface in the bottom right corner. Frame – There is a chip to the corner of the frame at the top right corner. In our opinion this piece is ready to hang.
