Artwork

Sir Henry Wood in the Queen's Hall

Sir Henry Wood in the Queen's Hall, by Adrian Paul Allinson, paint, 1920
Sir Henry Wood in the Queen's Hall, by Adrian Paul Allinson, paint, 1920

Sir Henry Wood in the Queen's Hall is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Adrian Paul Allinson. It dates from 1920 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This painting captures a moment from a concert at the Queen's Hall, depicting the conductor Sir Henry Wood leading an orchestra.

About this work

Overview

This painting captures a moment from a concert at the Queen's Hall, depicting the conductor Sir Henry Wood leading an orchestra.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Sir Henry Wood on a small stage, viewed from the right, with the orchestra partially visible and the audience seated in tiered rows. The setting is likely a Promenade concert, given the hall's historical association with the Proms.

Technique & Style

The painting features thick, visible brushstrokes and impasto, a technique where paint is applied heavily, giving the scene a lively, spontaneous feel. The artist's use of texture and expressive brushwork conveys the energy of the conductor and the performance.

Context

The Queen's Hall was a significant concert venue, hosting the Proms from 1895 until its destruction in 1941. The painting likely documents a specific event or atmosphere from this period.

Artist & collection