This vibrant 20th-century oil painting by British artist Alan Witney (1914-1996) depicts a picturesque view in the Chilterns from Old Amersham.
Witney’s early years were spent in India where his father worked as a Christian missionary. One can imagine that the rich intense sunsets made quite an impression on the young man. In 1924, he moved to London with his mother and siblings and by the age of 25, he was employed as an art master in Bournemouth on the south coast.
Here, in a work completed during the 1970s, he’s captured a charming view from Old Amersham in the Chilterns. He was often inspired by these beautiful rolling hills, painting them time and time again. At this point in his career, he’d settled in Rickmansworth, just a short drive from here.
Note the bold approach to line, particularly with the buildings, and the sense of depth he’s conveyed. It’s a lively little piece.
Signed in the lower left and framed.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 25” x 21” / 64cm x 54cm
Year of creation: c. 1970
Labels & Inscriptions: Label with title on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, England.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Alan Witney was an accomplished British artist predominantly known for producing popular Chiltern landscapes in an expressive style. He was born in India but moved to London early in life, settling in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, in his later years. Alongside his career as a painter, he also taught art in schools. His works were shown in numerous London galleries.
Learn more about Alan Witney in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
