Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd

Description

Mid Century Oil Painting of Three Cocker Spaniels
In the Manner of Maud Alice Earl
Oil on Canvas Laid on Board, Circa 1950–1960
A pleasing mid 20th century British oil painting depicting three Cocker Spaniels in a tiered head study composition. Painted in oils on unstretched canvas laid on board and housed in its period gilt moulded frame.
A traditional example of British canine and sporting art.
Description
The composition is arranged in a classic pyramidal format, giving balance and structure within a compact cabinet scale. Each spaniel overlaps slightly with the next, creating depth while maintaining clarity of form.
The colour palette is warm and naturalistic, with rich chestnut and mahogany tones defining the coats. Honeyed highlights suggest the sheen of well-groomed fur, while subtle tonal gradation across the muzzles provides gentle modelling. The background is a restrained cool grey-blue, offering contrast and allowing the warmth of the spaniels to stand forward.
Brushwork is careful and controlled, particularly in the treatment of the flowing ears and expressive eyes, which are delicately highlighted to convey life and character.
Subject
The Cocker Spaniel has long been a favoured subject in British animal painting, valued for both its sporting heritage and domestic popularity. By the mid 20th century the breed was firmly established as one of Britain’s most beloved dogs.
Each of the three spaniels displays individual character — one alert and observant, one gentle and affectionate, and one calm and contemplative — together expressing quiet companionship.
Attribution
Attributed to Dorothy Alexandra Johnson (1902–1988), Nottingham-born artist trained at the Nottingham School of Art under Arthur Spooner. Johnson specialised in canine portraiture from the 1930s onwards, particularly spaniels and other popular breeds.
Described as in the manner of Maud Alice Earl, reflecting the refined Victorian spaniel portrait tradition associated with her work.
No visible signature. Attribution based on stylistic comparison, subject matter and period.
Frame
Contained in a mid 20th century gilt moulded frame consistent with the 1950s–60s. The frame shows minor age-related wear and small losses but remains structurally sound and decorative.
Ready to hang.
Dimensions
Framed:
Height: 23 cm
Width: 28 cm
Depth: 5 cm
Image size:
Height: 13 cm
Width: 19 cm
A compact cabinet picture suitable for studies, country houses, hallways or sporting art collections.
Provenance
The Woodland Elf, Goole, East Riding of Yorkshire
Acquired from June Kilvington
Private Collection, East Riding of Yorkshire
Privately exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, 5–6 March 2025
Condition
Good vintage condition consistent with age. The paint surface appears stable with minor age-related foxing visible upon close inspection. The canvas is mounted on a firm backing board and secure within the frame. Frame with expected wear commensurate with age.
A decorative and well-executed mid century British canine oil painting, appealing to collectors of sporting art and traditional animal portraiture.
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Registered Office Address

Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ

Company Number 15666518
GB VAT registration number 466128775


Making Payment
Goods can be bought by either International bank wire transfer or domestic BACS payment we can email you an invoice together with our banking instructions. Cash upon collection is also accepted. Shipping is with insurance cover. Import duty and taxes payable by the buyer please enquire if you need any assistance. Delivery time is usually within 2 weeks for International and 1 week for domestic shipping approximate. It can be faster depending upon the size and weight of the item(s) that you ordering from us. You are also welcome to arrange for your own courier to collect as long as we have received full cleared bank transfer payment.