Artwork

Portrait of Frank Martin Hardie

Portrait of Frank Martin Hardie, by James McBey, watercolor, 1919
Portrait of Frank Martin Hardie, by James McBey, watercolor, 1919

Portrait of Frank Martin Hardie is a watercolor work on paper by the Post-Impressionist artist James McBey. It dates from 1919 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour portrait depicts Frank Martin Hardie, created by James McBey in 1919. The artist signed and dated the work.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait shows a young boy with disheveled hair and a contemplative expression, gazing to the side. The background is blurred, with vague suggestions of a hat or umbrella, drawing attention to the subject's face.

Technique & Style

Executed in loose, expressive strokes, the watercolour varies in density, with the boy's face rendered in greater detail and softer shading than the surrounding areas.

Artist & collection

Portrait of James McBey

Artist

James McBey

James McBey (23 December 1883 – 1 December 1959) was a largely self-taught Scottish artist and etcher whose prints were highly valued during the later stages of the etching revival in the early 20th century.