* ALEXANDER GOUDIE RP RGI (SCOTTISH 1933 - 2004),
THE PORTRAIT OF JOHN STEPHENS ORR (PORTRAIT OF A PORTRAITIST)
oil on linen, signed
112cm x 112cm
Framed.
Labels verso: James Bourlet & Sons Ltd, 17-18 Nassau Street; London together with handwritten artist label inscribed with title, artist's name and address.
Note: John Stephens Orr (1907 - 1990) was a famous Glasgow photographer with an interest in people and motor cars. Practicing between 1930 and 1970 in Glasgow's Langside and later at No. 4 Somerset Place, Charing Cross, he became known for his portraits of society figures in magazines such as Scottish Field. His usual subjects were judges, high profile lawyers, the aristocracy and controversial music hall characters. Orr also photographed some internationally famous celebrities and captains of industry, all visitors to Glasgow. Orr wore a distinctive kilt and photographed in a portrait style similar to Yousuf Karsh. "He recorded the last glimmers of a confident Scottish society in flamboyant style" His later life was spent with his wife, Jenny, on the Scottish Clyde coast island of Cumbrae. His many subjects included Paul Robeson — Singer and black activist, Dame Marie Rambert — Founder of Ballet Rambert, Marc Chagall — Painter, Clare Bloom - Actress, Richard Burton — Actor, Stanley Baxter — Comedian, Jacques Tati — Film maker, Paul Tortelier — Cellist, David Brown - Aston Martin cars, William Lyons - Jaguar, Austin cars, Walter Owen Bentley - Rolls Royce/Bentley cars and no doubt, Alexander Goudie - Artist.