JAMES PATERSON PRSW RSA RWS (SCOTTISH 1854 - 1932)
PAIR OF LANDSCAPES

watercolour on paper, one signed
both mounted, framed and under glass

image size 32cm x 22cm each, overall size 54cm x 42cm

Note: James Paterson's legacy lies primarily in his significant contribution to the Glasgow School and, through it, to the broader narrative of Scottish art. He was a key player in the movement that challenged the dominance of the Edinburgh establishment and brought a fresh, modern perspective to Scottish painting, particularly in the genre of landscape. His works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty, their authentic portrayal of the Scottish countryside, and their masterful handling of light and atmosphere. He successfully synthesized influences from continental Europe with a deeply personal connection to his native land. His paintings from the Moniaive period are considered among the finest examples of Scottish landscape painting from the late nineteenth century. They capture a specific sense of place with sensitivity and nuance, avoiding overt sentimentality while still conveying deep affection for the rural environment. As a skilled portraitist, he also contributed to the Glasgow Boys' reputation for strong, characterful depictions of individuals. Today, his works are held in major public collections, including the National Galleries of Scotland, Glasgow Museums, and the Hunterian Art Gallery at the University of Glasgow, ensuring his continued recognition. Art historians regard him as a pivotal figure who helped bridge the gap between traditional landscape painting and the more modern approaches that would follow in the twentieth century. He left Glasgow in 1884, and settled in Moniaive, Dumfriesshire with his wife. Paterson continued his long-established friendship with William York MacGregor and finally moved to Edinburgh in 1905, becoming a prominent member of the Royal Scottish Academy. Thirty-six of his paintings are held in UK public collections.