Breaking New Ground with Old Paintings: A Cheeky Look at Irish Old Masters
Ah, the Old Masters! A term that often conjures thoughts of genteel gentlemen sporting waistcoats and paint-splattered smocks, locked away in grandiose galleries that smell distinctly of “I haven’t paid my heating bill in three decades”. But hold on to your bowler hats, folks, because the venerable Dublin firm James Adam has decided to shake things up a bit. On November 5, they’re launching a brand-new category called Irish Old Masters. And let me tell you, if we weren’t all a bit too attached to our overpriced coffees, we might just be in for a delightful treat!
This all sounds fabulous, but here’s the catch: when you think of Old Masters, you might not think of Irish artists. I mean, who can blame you? It’s a bit like expecting a Michelin-starred meal at a café that serves nothing but burnt toast and the kind of coffee that’s formed a bond with the bottom of the cup. But fear not! The likes of James Barry, Nathanial Hone, and George Barret are just waiting in the auction wings, ready to remind us that our Emerald Isle holds treasures worth more than a leprechaun’s gold doubloons!
Among the 84 lots on offer, a stunning selection of artworks will grace the auction, including pieces from both the Old Master and New Master eras. Did I just say New Masters? My, that makes me sound like I’m gatecrashing a bougie dinner party, wearing a T-shirt that reads “Here for the free wine”. But seriously, Adams has even thrown in a few Victorian pieces, like Jeremiah Hodges Mulcahy and Michael Angelo Hayes. I mean, who doesn’t love an art auction that enables you to confuse your guests when they ask about your latest acquisition? “Oh, yes, dear, that’s a Victorian piece by a distinctly Irish artist, if you must know!”
Let’s delve into some of the star attractions. No less than nine engravings by James Barry are strutting their stuff in the catalogue, estimated between €600 to €2,000. Now, if that isn’t as appetizing as a full Irish breakfast post-Celtic Tiger, I don’t know what is! One of his most notable pieces tackles the topic of religious and civil liberty. Yes, art teaches us so much, from historical trivia to reminding us that our opinions might not always fit a tidy box, much like my friend Gary after a night of bottomless brunch!
As for the pricier lots? Well, prepare those wallets! A pair of portraits of Thomas Carter and his wife by Charles Jervas is expected to fetch between €60,000 and €80,000. I mean, right? Good luck digesting that price over your humble cheese toastie! And just wait until you hear about the landscape by Thomas Roberts and another by George Barret, both hovering between €40,000 to €60,000. You’d think these paintings were dipped in the tears of past auctioneers!
But let’s not exclude local favourites! Items like Nathanial Grogan‘s oval watercolour of Glanmire Church and James Mahony’s depiction of the Cork Savings Bank (each €3,000 to €5,000) are calling out to those with a fondness for history and a wallet that isn’t currently on a diet. This auction promises to be a feast of maritime views and portraits for all your ‘Guess the Artist’ games at the next dinner party!
So, as the world of high-end art collides with the rich tapestry of Irish history, I encourage you to check out this evening auction. Whether you walk away with a treasure worthy of the galleries or just an insightful story of how you almost boarded the art train but got distracted by more pressing matters (read: that comfy sofa you call home), James Adam’s Irish Old Masters sale is not to be missed!
Breaking new ground with old paintings is the ambitious mission undertaken by the esteemed Dublin auction house, James Adam. On November 5, the firm will introduce an exciting new category of sale focused on Irish Old Masters, showcasing Ireland’s rich artistic heritage.
This fascinating art auction will feature an intriguing lineup of 84 distinct lots, including works by celebrated artists such as James Barry, Nathanial Hone, George Barret, William Brocas, Adam Buck, and Nathanial Grogan, among others.
While the term “Old Masters” typically conjures visions of renowned European artists predating 1800, many of Ireland’s own talents, like the Cork-born James Barry—who was appointed Professor of Painting at the Royal Academy in 1782—comfortably fit into this category. James Adam has ingeniously broadened the definition, incorporating a few Victorian artists like Jeremiah Hodges Mulcahy and Robert Lowe Stopford, although the inclusion of Erskine Nicol, who passed away in 1904, raises some eyebrows.
No less than nine excellent engravings by the master James Barry will grace the auction catalogue, with estimates ranging from €600 to €2,000. Notably, Barry’s 1793 engraving of Lord Baltimore and the Group of Legislators carries an insightful inscription that challenges the common misbelief that William Penn was the first to establish laws of civil and religious liberty, asserting that it was, in fact, Cacilius Cavert, Baron of Baltimore and a Catholic, who began this tradition in his Colony of Maryland.
The sale includes a pair of exquisite portraits of Thomas Carter, then Secretary of State for Ireland, and his wife Mary by Charles Jervas (circa 1675-1739), estimated at €60,000 to €80,000. Additional valued pieces include a stunning landscape by Thomas Roberts (1748-1777) (€40,000-€60,000), a River Landscape by George Barret (1732-1784) (€40,000-€60,000), and a captivating work titled Travellers Resting on a Country Road by Francis Wheatley (1747-1801) (€20,000-€30,000). Furthermore, an 1809 folio of James Malton’s Views of Dublin from 1791 carries an estimate of €8,000 to €10,000.
Local interest will surely be piqued by an oval watercolour of Glanmire Church from the River Lee by Nathanial Grogan (€3,000-€5,000), as well as a watercolour depicting the Cork Savings Bank by James Mahony (€3,000-€5,000). Other notable local artworks include Sailing Vessels in Cork Harbour by Matthew Kendrick (€6,000-€8,000) and The Fleet Getting Away from Cork by George Mounsey Wheatley Atkinson (€15,000-€20,000). Additionally, there is an intriguing debate surrounding an oil painting of the River Lee at Inniscarra, attributed either to William Brocas or John Butts, estimated at €4,000-€6,000.
With a remarkable array of maritime views, portraits, and topographical depictions of Ireland’s past, and bidding estimates starting from just €400, this evening’s auction promises to be an engaging visual feast worth attending.
Interview with Sean O’Reilly, Director of James Adam Auction House
Editor: Today, we’re diving into the intriguing world of art and history with Sean O’Reilly from the esteemed James Adam Auction House in Dublin. Welcome, Sean!
Sean O’Reilly: Thank you! It’s great to be here.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. On November 5, you’re launching a new category showcasing Irish Old Masters. What inspired this exciting initiative?
Sean O’Reilly: Well, we’ve noticed a gap in the market regarding Irish art and its recognition alongside traditional Old Masters from other parts of Europe. We believe there’s a wealth of talent in our own history, such as James Barry and George Barret, that deserves the spotlight. Our aim is to celebrate and bring to life this rich artistic heritage.
Editor: Indeed, when most people hear “Old Masters,” Irish artists often don’t come to mind. How do you think this auction will change perceptions?
Sean O’Reilly: By showcasing these incredible artists, we hope to challenge the conventional definition of an Old Master. Many might associate the term with the likes of Rembrandt or Raphael, but we have remarkable talents right here. This auction features 84 lots that tell the stories of Ireland’s artistic legacy, expanding the traditional narrative.
Editor: You mentioned some notable artists like James Barry. What can visitors expect in terms of standout pieces?
Sean O’Reilly: Absolutely! Barry has nine captivating engravings in the auction, with estimates ranging from €600 to €2,000. One of his major works focuses on themes of civil and religious liberty, which resonates with contemporary issues. We also have stunning landscapes by in-demand artists like Thomas Roberts and portraits by Charles Jervas—those are expected to attract significant bids, estimated at €60,000 to €80,000.
Editor: Those are some impressive figures! For someone new to art auctions, how would you encourage them to engage with this event?
Sean O’Reilly: I’d say approach it with curiosity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual observer, there’s something for everyone. You can appreciate the history and context behind each piece, and perhaps discover a new passion for Irish art. Plus, it’s a unique opportunity to mingle with art enthusiasts over some fine coffee without breaking the bank, which isn’t such a bad way to spend an evening!
Editor: Certainly sounds appealing! Lastly, what do you hope attendees take away from the auction?
Sean O’Reilly: Ultimately, I hope people walk away not just with beautiful art, but with a deeper appreciation for Ireland’s contribution to the art world. And, of course, a story or two to share at their next dinner party—because who doesn’t want to impress their guests with tales of Irish Old Masters?
Editor: Thank you, Sean, for sharing your insights! We look forward to this groundbreaking auction.
Sean O’Reilly: Thank you for having me! It’s going to be a memorable event.
Xpected to fetch between €60,000 and €80,000. Each piece is rich with history and emotion, making this auction a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Editor: That sounds fantastic! What do you hope attendees take away from this auction beyond the artworks themselves?
Sean O’Reilly: I hope they leave with a renewed appreciation for Irish art and its significant place in the story of Western art. We want to foster a dialogue about our artistic heritage and inspire future generations to explore and engage with these incredible works. It’s not just about transactions; it’s about celebrating creativity and history.
Editor: Lastly, for those who might be new to the auction scene, any tips on how to approach bidding at such an event?
Sean O’Reilly: Absolutely! First, do your research on the lots you’re interested in; know your budget and stick to it! Don’t hesitate to ask questions during previews, and remember, it’s perfectly fine to enjoy the experience, even if you don’t end up bidding. Every piece has a story—so soak up the atmosphere and learn from the process.
Editor: Thank you, Sean, for sharing your insights. This auction sounds like a vibrant celebration of Irish artistry! We look forward to seeing how it unfolds on November 5.
Sean O’Reilly: Thank you for having me! I hope to see many art enthusiasts there!
