No cars on this painting, but it does show a lady stylishly dressed for a drive in her motor car: the dustcoat, the large gloves, and the plaid all make a statement about her being a modern woman, adopting the latest modes of transport as well as being wealthy enough to own a car. The enormous hat was fashionable in those days and most female drivers or passengers preferred to hold it in place with a scarf in stead of wearing a smaller hat. The painting dates from 1904 and was made by Sir William Nicholson who was the father of the famous English painter Ben Nicholson. In his youth William Nicholson was, with James Pryde, one of the so-called Beggarstaff Brothers. Later Nicholson became a successful, although traditional painter of portraits. Nicholson loved style and often included costume in his paintings. The painting is a portrait of the playwright Sylvia Bristowe and belongs to the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria, who kindly gave their permission to publish this image.









October 27, 2006