Unknown genre scene or portrait (verso view provided)
Painting on structural support • Attributed to William Eadie (Scottish, active 1881–1910)
Style & Movement
Victorian Realism / Academicism
Medium & Technique
Oil or tempera on slate panel; features hand-planed wooden strainer/frame
Creation Period
Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (circa 1880-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 8 inches; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
Subject matter is currently obscured as only the verso (reverse) is visible. Based on the attribution to William Eadie, it likely depicts a domestic genre scene, a portrait, or a rustic interior common to the late Victorian Scottish school.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; demonstrates age-related wear to the frame and oxidation on the slate
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Displays a modern blue gallery or inventory label from 'Anita ...'; 'W. Eadie' and 'BSLG' inscribed in marker or dark pigment on the reverse of the slate. Previous auction or inventory markings 'HSH' visible on the wooden frame.
Art Historical Significance
William Eadie was a noted Scottish genre painter who exhibited at the Royal Academy and the Royal Society of British Artists. His work is representative of the late Victorian interest in everyday life and narrative sentiment. Paintings on slate are a less common but durable support used for smaller works.
Notable Features
Inscribed artist name 'W. Eadie' on the slate; unusual use of a slate panel support which indicates an artist cognizant of material longevity; presence of multiple historical inventory marks.
Condition Issues
Abrasions to the wooden frame, heavy oxidation/dust on the slate support, remnants of adhesive tape, and potential surface grime on the primary image (not visible).
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of the slate reverse to prevent pigment transfer; evaluation of the primary paint layer for delamination (common with slate supports due to lack of tooth). Keep in a stable, low-humidity environment.
Collector Notes
W. Sadie picture is on slate and wood frame. Has attribution.