Walter Dendy Sadler RBA, The Introduction

Walter Dendy Sadler RBA, The IntroductionThis charming late 19th century oil painting by English artist Walter Dendy Sadler RBA (1854 1923) depicts an introduction between a demure young Regency lady and her potential suitor. Sadler was an ingenious, highly appreciated painter of witty genre scenes and a member of the Royal Society of British Artists. On the left, a proud father, upstanding in his tailcoat, waistcoat and cravat, gently holds the gloved hand of his apprehensive daughter. She

The artist has drawn our attention to the mean-looking bearded chap in the centre who is lit by a gas lamp

And makes the people talk

given its age

Undeterred by convention

as if spotting a figure through a concealed upper window

a weary farmer gazes across his yard

At this point in their lives

and pink neckerchief

he’s captured a charming view from Old Amersham in the Chilterns

create a textured surface

Imagine waking up to a view across the lake with the light shimmering across its surface

it seems elusive