Fine Victorian 1890’s Signed Scottish Oil Painting Farmers Daughter in Meadow

“The Farmers Daughter” by Charles Martin Hardie RSA (1858-1916) *see notes below signed with initials and dated ’84, oil on canvas: 20 x 16 inches framd: 26 x 22 inches Provenance: Richard Green Gallery, London, whence bought by the previous owner. condition: Lined, clean, in the same ready to hang gallery condition as when acquired by the previous owner c1980. Experience the serene beauty of the countryside with this enchanting oil painting by renowned Scottish artist Charles Martin Hardie RSA. Signed with his initials and dated 1884, “The Farmers Daughter” captures a tranquil moment in a sunlit meadow. A young woman, dressed in a flowing pink dress, stands thoughtfully beside two milk churns, ready to begin her daily chores. Hardie’s masterful use of light and color brings the scene to life, with dappled sunlight casting gentle shadows across the lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. The composition’s idyllic setting, complete with a rustic fence and a backdrop of verdant trees, evokes a sense of peace and simplicity, characteristic of rural life in the 1800-1899. This painting not only showcases Hardie’s exceptional skill in capturing natural beauty but also his ability to convey the quiet moments of everyday life with grace and sensitivity. The work’s excellent provenance, having been part of the esteemed Richard Green collection in London, further adds to its value and distinction. In excellent condition and ready to hang, “The Farmers Daughter” is a timeless piece that would make a stunning addition to any collection of fine art. Whether displayed in a private home, a gallery, or a public space, this painting invites viewers to pause and appreciate the serene charm of the countryside. Born in East Linton, East Lothian, Hardie entered the family business and worked as a carpenter. However, a family connection with the artist, John Pettie, encouraged him to study at the Trustees’ Academy in Edinburgh. Hardie became known for his pictures of Scottish rural life which often have a strong narrative element. He produced portraits, landscapes and genre scenes as well as historical paintings in both oils and watercolour. His 1899 ‘Curling at Carsebreck’ is held in the permanent collection of the National Galleries Scotland. The picture had been commissioned to mark the Diamond Jubilee of The Royal Caledonian Curling Club. The sixty-one people depicted are all individual portraits of members. Hardie exhibited his first picture at The Royal Scottish Academy in 1877 and the popularity of his work is reflected by the fact that the Academy accepted a remarkable 175 further examples. Charles Martin Hardie’s work is held in the collections of The National Galleries of Scotland, Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, Abbotsford House, Highland Council, Laing Art Gallery, The National Army Museum, The National Trust, The National Trust for Scotland, McLean Museum & Art Gallery, The Royal Scottish Academy, John Muir House, Westminster College (University of Cambridge) and others. Hardie’s “The Studio Mirror” a 72 x 59cm oil on canvas was sold by Bonhams, New Bond Street, London on 11th July 2012 (lot 65) for £15,625 (premium). Keywords: Charles Martin Hardie, Scottish art, 19th-century painting, pastoral scene, rural life, oil painting, collectible art, fine art, Richard Green, London.