A full-length and life-size portrait of the Duchess of Wellington,
painted by Mr. J. W. Walton, is on view for a few days at his studio in Saville-row. The duchess is depicted in fall court dress, holding a fan in one hand, with the other she gathers together the folds of her train. The figure is turned partially from the beholder—the face looks out of the canvas. The attitude is unhackneyed and well chosen, and drawn with grace and refinement. The face is calm, dignified, and aristocratic, and proves that Mr. Walton possesses the somewhat rare power of painting a lady. The draperies are care- fully arranged, painted conscientiously, and with due regard to variety of texture. The colour is harmonious but somewhat sub- dued, though the darkness of the day on which I viewed the paint- ing may have had some influence in this respect. Regarding it as a whole, it must be pronounced by far the best female portrait that has emanated from Mr. Walton's pencil. It is intended for exhibi- tion at the Royal Academy.
DST POINT.
Previous page
