Lot 1

(Possibly) The Cooling Galleries, London
Private collection, United Kingdom
Toovey's Auctioneers, United Kingdom, 21 March 2012, lot 67
Private collection, United Kingdom

(Possibly) Paintings by the Australian Artist Agnes Goodsir A.R.W.A. Societaire of the Salon des Beaux Arts, Paris, The Cooling Galleries, London, 10 - 23 May 1938, cat. no. 37

Agnes Goodsir occupies a distinguished place in the annals of Australian art and is celebrated for her exceptional contributions to portraiture and still life painting. Born in Portland, Victoria, Goodsir started her artistic education at the Bendigo School of Mines and Industries under the tutelage of artist Arthur Woodward, who insisted that students be exposed to international influential circles.

Agnes' move to Paris in 1900 represented a pivotal moment in her career, immersing herself into the vibrant cultural milieu of early 20th century Europe. In Paris, she studied at the esteemed Académie Delécluse and the Académie Julian. These institutions, known for their rigorous standards and avant-garde approach, were instrumental in shaping her distinctive style.

Her floral still life paintings reveal a true representation of her artistic talent. Her paintings are distinguished by their precise depiction of floral arrangements, rendered with a delicate touch and presents flowers as ephemeral, timeless symbols of beauty.

Spending the majority of her artistic career in London, Agnes maintained a strong connection to Australia. Her works were frequently exhibited, enriching her practice and allowing her to contribute significantly to both artistic communities.

Her last exhibition was held at The Cooling Galleries, London in May 1938, where she showed 64 paintings, 56 being still life subjects. After her death in 1939, the artist left all of her paintings to her partner, Rachel Dunn, who sent 40 to Agnes' family in Australia, and the remainder to Daryl Lindsay to be distributed to Australian public galleries.

Hannah Ryan
Art Specialist