28th May, 2025 10:00
Old Master, British and European Art
281
John Emms (1843-1912)
Two greyhounds
signed 'J. EMMS' l.r., oil on canvas
61 x 76cm
At the end of the 19th century, the genre of dog painting reached its zenith, with John Emms (1843-1912) emerging as a pivotal figure in this artistic movement. Renowned for his masterful depictions of hounds and terriers, Emms is celebrated as one of the pre-eminent animal painters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Son of the artist Henry William Emms, John Emms spent his early years in Norfolk before relocating to London. There, he briefly apprenticed under Lord Frederic Leighton, contributing to the fresco at Lyndhurst parish church in Hampshire. Although little is known about his formal education, Emms' passion for hunting and the landscapes of the New Forest profoundly influenced his artistic direction.
An avid huntsman, Emms frequently participated in hunts with foxhounds, buckhounds and beagles. This intimate connection with the hunting world inspired him to focus on sporting scenes, particularly those featuring dogs. His works are distinguished by their dynamic compositions and lifelike portrayals of canine subjects. Emms possessed a remarkable ability to capture the essence and character of the animals he painted, making his works highly coveted by collectors and dog enthusiasts alike.
He was a prolific artist, and many of his works are of a very high quality, which is regularly reflected in the high hammer prices achieved. Initially, his paintings exhibited a more formalised and highly finished style. However, over time, he developed a freer technique characterised by quick and confident brushstrokes.
Throughout his career, Emms regularly exhibited at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy and the British Institution, earning accolades for his contributions in both London and Paris.
In the present lot, two noble hounds are depicted at the centre of the composition. The overcast sky, coupled with the distant body of water and trees, creates a serene and tranquil scene, capturing a moment in nature with these animals. Emms' skill in rendering the dogs' coats and expressions is evident, with meticulous attention to detail in the fur and natural setting, showcasing his ability to bring his subjects to life.
£6,000 - £8,000
Buyer's premium: 30.00% (inclusive of VAT, where applicable)
Condition Report
Framed: 82.5 x 98cm
The painting is executed in oil on canvas support which has been lined. The canvas tension is good and the picture is in plane. The paint layers are in a good, stable condition. There is some minor wear and abrasion evident in the thinner paint passages. There are some areas of overpaint present, mainly in the sky. The overpaint is slightly matte but generally well matched to the original. The varnish has slightly yellowed with age but is even and semi-matte. In our opinion presents well overall and ready to hang. Please see additional images.
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Auction: Old Master, British and European Art, 28th May, 2025
Viewing
Viewing will be held at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE, as follows:
Friday 23 May, 10am - 4pm
Saturday 24 May - CLOSED
Sunday 25 May, 10am - 1pm
Monday 26 May - CLOSED
Tuesday 27 May, 10am - 4pm
All lots are, however, extensively illustrated and carry detailed condition reports - see 'Condition report' at the foot of each lot description.
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
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