Henry Scott Tuke, R.A., R.W.S. (1858-1929)

Full of light and movement with the shimmering heat of the summer's day reflected in the azure blues in the sea, this is a fine example of Tuke's impressionist painting and displays his ability to make Falmouth, Cornwall, look like the Mediterranean.

The orange jersey was painted during the First World War in 1915, when artists were severely restricted around Britain's coast as to their outdoor work, which made this a difficult picture for Tuke to complete. The models are believed to be Charlie Mitchell who was Tuke's main model until he went off to fight, and Harry Giles. Tuke had also had great success in 1915 as his Bathing Group (R790), which he had submitted the year before as his diploma piece for his election as a full Royal Academician, was exhibited at the Royal Academy.

We are grateful to Catherine Wallace for her help in preparing this catalogue entry.