Art historians and enthusiasts alike will find themselves enthralled by the exhibition “Fruit of Friendship: Portraits by Mary Beale” currently on display at Philip Mould & Company in London (April 25th – July 19th, 2024). This exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of Mary Beale (1633-1699), a pioneering figure in British art history. We were delighted to visit the exhibition ourselves recently.
“Fruit of Friendship: Portraits by Mary Beale” now on display at Philip Mould & Company. Explore the life and work of Britain’s pioneering woman artist.
“Fruit of Friendship” looks at the partnership between Mary Beale and her husband, Charles. At a time when women artists were not foregrounded, Charles defied expectations by becoming his wife’s dedicated studio manager. His, and the wider family’s, contributions extended to preparing canvases and pigments, managing business records, and providing crucial support for Mary’s flourishing career.
The exhibition boasts a significant selection of Beale’s works, showing the breadth of her artistic tallent, and a valuable opportunity for scholars and art enthusiasts to gain a deeper understanding of Mary Beale’s artistic practice. The inclusion of previously unseen works, alongside the exploration of her collaborative studio dynamic, offers a fresh perspective on her remarkable career.
There was a particular reason to visit the exhibition, which concerns this painting at Soulton.
Elizabeth Hill (wife of Thomas Hill). Portrait attributed to Mary Beale.
“Fruit of Friendship” presents a unique opportunity to view a collection of previously unseen works. This includes a recently rediscovered portrait of Charles Beale himself, alongside a captivating portrait of Anne Sotheby. Notably, the latter piece will be included in Tate Britain’s upcoming exhibition, “Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain, 1520–1920.”
Located at Philip Mould & Company in London, “Fruit of Friendship” is open weekdays from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. (https://philipmould.com/artworks/british-paintings-for-sale/) No booking is required.
A glimpse into a remarkable artistic partnership: “Fruit of Friendship” at Philip Mould & Company. Discover Mary Beale’s portraits.
