John Crealock (British, 1871-1959) Still Life with Lilies

Oil on canvas. Signed (lower right). Noted on back 'For Phyllis Keep,' 'John Crealock 1938.'

Catalogue Note: John Crealock began his artistic studies in Paris at the Academie Julian under the guidance of Antonio de la Gandara (1862-1917). He exhibited at the Salon de la Societe Nationale from the year 1911 to 1933. He worked for a period in London painting portraits, most notably the portraits of Cardinal Gasquet, Diana Gould and composer Isidore de Lara. Although he lived for the most part in Dublin, Ireland he spent considerable time painting the environs in and around Paris as well the coastal villages of France.
Still Life with Lilies was painted as a gift for a friend. On the reverse side is inscribed 'John Crealock, July 1938, For Phyllis Keep'. It may be safe to assume that Crealock knew his friend enjoyed lilies and has presented a grand arrangement of only lilies. The background and table are completely unadorned leaving the focus absolutely on the lilies towering in their stoneware vase. The placement of the vase to the right of the canvas allows the lilies to spread out with abandon, as lilies want to do.

Exhibited: Salon de la Societe Nationale.