Watercolour on board. Framed in a lightly bronzed wood frame. Framed behind glass
D i m e n s i o n s
Unframed 6 1/2" x 4 3/4"
Including Frame 8 7/8" x 7 1/4"
Painting protrudes 1 1/4" inches from the wall
D e s c r i p t i o n
Signed C. H. Bradley on the bottom right corner.
One of two small vintage (nearly antique!) watercolour paintings by Charlotte H. Bradley. No date on this one however its companion is dated '44. Foil sticker on back typical of mid 20th century gift shops.
Note on back reads:
The Sea, the Sea; the open Sea;
The blue, the fresh; the ever free.
As ships becalm'd, no wind, or tide.
Float quiet and peaceful, side by side.
—Watercolor Sketch, by Charlotte H. Bradley.
The first 2 lines are from The Sea (1832) by English poet Bryan Waller Procter (Barry Cornwall). The last two lines thoughtfully reflect the painting's subject matter, and I assume, are written by the artist.
I wasn't able to find any info on Charlotte H. Bradley, but this work's cozy harbour scene, rich vintage framing, and poem on back leave plenty to admire. I think it's well done in many ways; smart shading in the water and greenery, the serene dawn (dusk?) sky, and the rendering of the ships' reflections. I also love seeing tiny brushstrokes on small representational pieces like this one. Too cute. Overall I find it very peaceful and a sweet 1940's piece that'll bring charm to any space.
