catalog text
“A SHEPHERD’S COT IN GLEN NEVIS, INVERNESS-SHIRE” BY HENRY DEACON HILLIER PARKER (ENGLISH, 1858-1930)
Signed H.D. Hillier lower left; in oil on canvas; titled verso and retaining early Cooling Galleries label
Item # 808KPP29Z
H.D. Hillier is generally reconized as the pseudonym of Henry Deacon Hillier Parker, as he actively painted under this and H.D. Hillyer due to the circumstances of his contract with galleries in London. His well developed technique is reminiscent of his contemporary Benjamin Leader; while he was economically successful, he never became popular in his day, owing at least partially to his lack of major national exhibition. His subject matter tended to revolve around English landscapes tended by farmers and common people of the day, often being pastoral scenes with figures engaged in haymaking or harvesting activities. These technically accurate nostalgic works that were highly sought after in the congested and busy cities of the day and beyond London he exhibited and exported work to Canada and the United States. The present example is titled "A Shepherd's Cot in Glen Nevis, Inverness-Shire" and captures a little thatched roof hut set in the hollow of converging hills before a quiet body of water where cattle settle in for a drink. It is an exceptionally well executed piece with a heavy impasto and inordinate amount of detailing, particularly in the foreground foliage. The use of light is exemplary and actually becomes most evident when viewed under UV where intense rays of light diffuse through the clouds. The painting is housed in a gorgeous giltwood frame and remains in impeccable original condition.
Marks/inscriptions: Inscribed verso “A Shepherd’s Cot in Glen Nevis, Inverness-Shire, HD Hillier 4569”, stamped “Prepared by C. Robertson & Co Ltd, 99 Long Acre, London”, label verso “Cooling Galleries Ont. Ltd. 92 New Bond St, London, 1215 Bay St. Toronto, 5"
Measurements: 28 3/8” W x 2 3/4” D x 34 1/2” H [frame]; 22 1/8” W x 28 1/8” H [canvas]
Condition Report:
Painting appears to be free of restoration under UV. Origina lining. Minor wear around edges where frame rubs. Minor gilt chips/wear to frame.