Study for 'The House of Commons - Ramsay Macdonald addressing the House'
About this artwork
The varied appearance and animation of the politicians holding their papers contribute to the lively character of Lavery's sketch. He has captured a moment during one of Ramsay Macdonald's speeches in the House of Commons in 1924, the year Macdonald formed Britain's first Labour government. Macdonald's distinctive figure, standing informally at the dispatch box, can be seen in the crowded House at the top of Lavery's panel. Lavery's high viewpoint was probably based on his position in the visitors' gallery.
Updated before 2020
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artist:
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title:Study for 'The House of Commons - Ramsay Macdonald addressing the House'
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date created:1924
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materials:Oil on panel
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measurements:39.10 x 29.20 cm; Framed: 47.80 x 38.50 x 3.50 cm
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object type:
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credit line:Purchased 1994
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accession number:PG 2946
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gallery:
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depicted:
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subject:
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artwork photographed by:Antonia Reeve
Sir John Lavery
Sir John Lavery
Lavery rose to prominence as a painter of society portraits and contemporary scenes during the Glasgow International Exhibition of 1888. His determination to paint led him from his native Ireland to Glasgow where he tinted photographs to finance his art classes. He studied in London and Paris,...