1870 British Artist Henry Martin (1835-1908) Antique Genre scene O/c painting

Up for sale is an antique original oil painting on canvas by listed British artist Henry Martin (1835-1908) depicting a genre scene. Titled "His First Admiring Words". John Henry Martin (1835-1908), known as Henry Martin, was born in Camberwell, London. Martin began adult life as a midshipman, sailing around the Cape of Good Hope to India before 'discovering' Newlyn in 1870. He was the only artist listed as a resident in Newlyn at the time of the 1871 Census, and the only one of the first-generation of Newlyn artists to be in the vicinity at the time of the 1881 Census. Martin and his wife, Helen Amy, retained their tenancy at Castle Cliff until 1883, later moving to the Plymouth area: thus he had been painting in Newlyn for up to twelve years prior to the arrival of the main body of artists to the locality. Two of his paintings were included in the 1889 West Cornwall Art Union Exhibition in Penzance. He exhibited at the NAG Opening Exhibition in 1895 and was described in the reviews as 'the original Newlynite' although he was, by that time, exhibiting from a London address. He also exhibited at the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, MAFA, RA, and at the RBA. The artist married a second time, after the death of his first wife, to Rosina Blake (called Rose) and with her had two children, the second of whom, Nora Kate Lympany, died in 2002, aged 99 years. Martin spent the last years of his life living at 5 Brunel Terrace in Saltash, Cornwall, beside the River Tamar, where he died. Penlee House Gallery and Museum and Saltash Town Council have examples of his work. This painting depicts a romantic and tranquil scene of a couple walking through a wooded path. The young woman, dressed in a bonnet, white shawl, and warm-toned dress, walks slightly ahead with a calm and graceful expression. Beside her, the man, wearing a dark brown coat and a wide-brimmed hat, leans toward her, suggesting a quiet conversation or flirtation. Set in a dense forest, the tall trees and overhanging branches create a natural canopy, while the soft, dappled light adds depth and a peaceful atmosphere. In the background, other figures are visible, adding life to the scene. The warm colors of the figures’ clothing contrast with the cool greens and browns of the forest, highlighting the couple as the focal point. Martin’s style reflects Victorian genre painting, focusing on everyday life with a narrative element. His attention to detail and use of light brings realism and warmth to the composition. The frame’s ornate design enhances the elegance of the artwork, complementing its rich tones and historical subject matter. The painting is signed and dated 1870 in the lower-right corner. Titled on the back side of the canvas. Dimensions (frame): 23.5” W x 29.5” H Dimensions (sight): 18.5” W x 23.5” H Houses in a hand-decorated gold frame. Condition: One X-shaped restored tear and few patches. _____________________ Please note that the physical colors of the item may vary from the pictures in the listing, given the quality of the camera, the lighting, and the background used We sell vintage and antique items. All of the items will have some wear from age, use, and/or handling over time. We try to take many photos of the items to show the maximum details. Please view all the photos in the listing and feel free to ask any questions you may have about an item before you buy it. Thank you for your interest in our items.