Madame X, after John Singer Sargent's 1884 portrait of
Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau
[HF 1118] Holly Frean, 2019
Oil on wooden palette
47 x 38 x 3 cm
POA - please email studio@hollyfrean.com
Painted in oils on a reclaimed wooden palette, this study of John Singer Sargent's society portraits pays homage to one of Holly Frean's greatest artist heroes and his model. Originally painted for her beauty, Frean strategically positions the head where the thumb hole of the palette is, thereby cheekily undermining the original intention of this old master! It is unframed - instead the work is fixed to a hidden bevelled block on the reverse which rests on a second block fixed to the wall. It is float-hung to present the painting as an object and casts its own subtle shadow, bringing to mind it’s former purpose as a ready-to-use tool hanging on the artist’s studio wall. This work was made for a solo exhibition at Paul Smith's flagship store in London's Mayfair in 2016. A rare chance to buy an original Frean with her trademark inherent wit, painterly sensuality and art historical referencing.
We ship worldwide from the UK. Most small/medium works can be mailed. We will arrange for larger works to be crated and shipped by our trusted logistics company who will invoice you separately. Alternatively enter FREESHIP at the checkout if you would prefer to collect the work from the artist’s studio in London SW8 or SW11. For more information or to arrange a viewing please email studio@hollyfrean.com.