Still Life of Flowers in a Gilded White Vase
Painting on canvas-board or panel • Alfred Reginald Thomson (1894–1979)
Style & Movement
British Post-Impressionism / Modern British Art
Medium & Technique
Oil on panel/board; technique involves direct application with visible impasto and wet-on-wet brushwork.
Creation Period
1970
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 16 inches; Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A vibrant floral arrangement featuring red poppies, yellow pansies, and white lilies set in a white vase with gold detailing. The vase sits on a reflective brown table against a decorative blue and pink dotted background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paint layer appears stable with vibrant pigment retention.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely private collection; the presence of a signature and date '70' suggests it was a late-career work by the artist, possibly acquired directly or through a London gallery representative of the Royal Academy artists.
Art Historical Significance
Alfred Thomson was a prominent Royal Academician and the last person to win a gold medal for painting at the Olympic Games (1948). This work represents his late-period style, moving away from his famous murals and portraits toward more intimate, expressive still lifes.
Notable Features
Signed and dated 'ALFRED R THOMSON 70' in red at the lower left; features a distinctive pointillist-inspired background that enhances the color theory of the red and green floral elements.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dirt and slight yellowing of the protective varnish; some frame rubbing along the extreme edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Surface cleaning by a qualified conservator to remove dust and nicotine; house in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light.
Collector Notes
Alfred R Thomson 1970