Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers
Lot 175
John Wood (British, 1801-1870). Student at RA schools, gold medallist 1825. The Last Interview of Paul and Virginia, signed l.r., oil on canvas, a poignant depiction of a Jack Tar type character bidding farewell to his sweetheart, c. 1820, 26cm by 26cm, gilt frame, remnants of artist’s label at verso, some craquelure Notes: John Wood studied at Sass's and the Royal Academy schools, where in 1825 he gained the gold medal for painting. According to a Christie's sale catalogue of 16 February 1872, Wood as a student at the RA 'obtained the notice of Fuseli and Sir Thomas Lawrence, and under the auspices of the latter he commenced his career in art'. He won the competition for the altarpiece of St James's, Bermondsey [The Ascension] 1844, and was commissioned by Earl de Grey to paint the ceiling panels in Wrest Park, Bedfordshire. His work is represented in the National Portrait Gallery, Sir John Soane’s Museum and the V&A. [Catalogue of British Oil Paintings 1820-1860, Ronald Parkinson, V&A, 1990, pp.305-306] Provenance: By descent. The vendor’s great-great-great uncle was John Wood (1801-1870)
