Isherwood Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Oil on canvas in a period giltwood frame.
127.5 x 102.2 cm.
Although the identities of the sitters are currently unknown, they are likely to be daughters from a wealthy family, given their fashionably fine clothes and matching red slippers with their pets conveying a sense of refinement and high status. Other comparable works include his portrait of Emily and Georgina Mason with a lamb and cockatoo (Sotheby's, London, April 1996) and his portrait of Mary and Martha Spier with a spaniel (Sotheby's, London, July 1980).
George James was born in London, and studied for some time in Rome. He established himself in Dean Street, Soho, London, and became a member of the Incorporated Society of Artists, exhibiting with them from 1761 to 1768.
In 1764 he exhibited a painting called 'The Death of Abel.' In 1770 James was elected an associate of the Royal Academy, and up to 1779 was a regular contributor of portraits to its exhibitions.
Having inherited property in Soho, London and marrying a woman of some fortune, James was financially independent of his profession. In 1780 he moved to Bath, where he continued painting portraits and in 1789 and 1790 again exhibited at the Royal Academy.
Later he retired to Boulogne, where he died early in 1795, after suffering imprisonment during the French Revolution.
Isherwood Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
16th to 19th century old master, british and european paintings and sculpture, specialising in period portraiture. Member BADA, LAPADA.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Isherwood Fine Art Profile Page
Isherwood Fine Art is a registered member of LAPADA BADA
18th Century English Portrait of Two Young Girls by George James (Fl. London 1755-1795 Boulogne)
