112103

UNTRACED

William Waldegrave Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne c. 1921

Seated half-length slightly to the left, looking full face to the viewer, his right hand to his chin, wearing a waistcoat, jacket and necktie

Oil on canvas, 91.5 x 61 cm (36 x 24 in.)

Studio Inventory, p. 7 (42): The Rt. Hon. the Earl of Selborne / Canvas signed / In the possession of The Rt. Hon. the Earl of Selborne [October 1938] / Gifted to the sitter after the Artist's death under the gifts clause in his Will, together with Certificate of Authenticity

The age of the sitter and his clothes would indicate that the present picture was executed in 1921, during sittings for a head and shoulders portrait of Lord Selborne which de László painted in gratitude for his support and continuous friendship during the First World War, see [7056].

The present portrait is probably de László’s first attempt at painting him. Out of the four pictures the artist painted of Selborne, it is the only one that represents him full face, and not in three-quarter profile to the left. Although the picture is unsigned, it is in an advanced state, and the fact that de László kept it in his studio until his death could suggest that he intended to keep it as a memento of his friend for his own collection. Its specific bequest to Selborne would confirm that he was attached to the picture.

For biographical notes on the sitter, see [6965].

PROVENANCE:

In the possession of the artist on his death;

Bequeathed to the sitter under the gifts clause of the artist’s will

CC 2011