The Child of Truth or Fiction by Eleanor Fortescue Brickdale, ROI, RWS (1872-1945). [The picture in its frame] Signed in the lower right-hand corner in a cartouche: E.F. BRICKDALE. Watercolour on paper. Collection: Leighton House Museum, Kensington, where it was on display at the re-opening of the museum after restoration, in October 2022. The Silk Room was added to Leighton's studio late in his life, with the idea of showcasing the work of those in his artistic circle. Information accompanying the picture explains that Brickdale lived in Holland Park Road from about 1902-45. The allegory here, so typical of the kind the artist employed, presents both Fiction and Truth as delightful in their own ways, and linked by a swathe of colourful flowers. The cherub (or "Child") above and between them has one hand in each of theirs and seems to be passing onto Fiction, whose quill is already poised, the substance of what he has learned from Truth. With naked body and colourful shimmering wings, this little go-between seems to partake of both of his "parents." The composition is colourful, playful and a little conversation piece all in one. Fiction's fanciful headpiece with its swirling feather seems to be shedding stars in an inky sky. Photograph and caption material by Jacqueline Banerjee.
Created 25 October 2022