Joseph Walter West (British, 1860-1933) Portrait of Harry Simpson signed and dated 'JWalter West 1888' (lower right) oil on canvas 129 x 97cm (50 13/16 x 38 3/16in). Footnotes: Provenance Collection of the Hull and East Riding Hospital Trust. Their sale, Gilbert Baitson Auctioneers, Hull, 9 July 2025, lot 2. Joseph Walter West was born into a Quaker family, the son of Alfred West, a seed crusher and corn dealer, and Sarah Ann West (née Petchell). He initially worked as a cashier for the engineering firm Priestman Brothers in Hull, during which time he began studying art at Bootham School, York. Having saved enough to pursue his ambitions, West moved to London in 1883 to undertake formal training at the St John's Wood Art School and subsequently at the Royal Academy Schools. He later continued his studies in Paris at the Académie Julian, reflecting the broader trend among British artists of the period to seek continental instruction. West's talent was recognised early in his career; in 1887 he was awarded a silver medal by the Royal Academy for a drawing from life. His professional standing continued to rise, and in 1893 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of British Artists. He was later elected to the Royal Watercolour Society in 1904, serving as Vice President between 1918 and 1920. In addition to his work as a painter and watercolourist, West contributed to the visual culture of early twentieth-century London through the design of seven posters for London Underground between 1916 and 1931. His works are often distinguished by a distinctive monogram incorporating a weathervane pointing west alongside the letters of his surname. For a period, West lived in the North Craven area of North Yorkshire, particularly in the vicinity of Settle. During his time there, he painted a number of portraits depicting local families and figures, offering a valuable insight into the character and community of the region. The present portrait, painted in 1888, depicts Harry Simpson, who served as Chairman of the Hull Royal Infirmary from 1881 to 1887. The composition presents the sitter in his official capacity, reflecting both his leadership within the institution and his standing within the civic life of Hull. The work was part of the collection of Hull Royal Infirmary, where it remained for many years, underscoring the importance of commemorative portraiture within the hospital's institutional history. In this context, West's portrait may be understood as part of a broader tradition of recording key figures associated with the governance and development of major provincial medical institutions in the late 19th century. Saleroom notices: Please note that this work is on canvas laid to board. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing

Saleroom Notice:
Please note that this work is on canvas laid to board.