Animal Studies, 1814
Charles Towne (British, 1763-1840)
Oil on panel
Signed and dated Chas. Towne/ Pinxit 1814 (lower right)
15 x 11 3/8 (21 x 17 ¼ frame) inches
Provenance:
Collection of Robert H. & Clarice Smith
Sale, Christie's, New York, Oct. 12, 2011, lot 100
 
"His landscapes are minutely detailed and have a Dutch mannerism; animals and figures are put in with diligent and affectionate care." According to artist W. S. Sparrow.
 
This painting captures the essence of Towne’s artistic prowess. The studies, executed with finesse, reflect the culmination of his experiences, influences, and evolving techniques as he works towards advanced solutions of depiction for his large body of work.
 
Charles Towne’s artistic odyssey led him to Liverpool, where he found employment with John Rathbone, honing his skills painting ornaments to adorn book covers while delving into the world of landscape painting. From Bolton-le-Moors to Lancaster and Manchester, he traveled to different cities, working as a decorative painter and occasional copyist. Despite these diverse experiences, Towne harbored an unyielding ambition to establish himself as an independent painter specializing in animals and landscapes.
 
In 1786, Towne took a significant step in his artistic career by exhibiting at a show organized by the Society for Promoting the Arts of Painting and Design, a precursor to the Liverpool Academy. This marked the beginning of his public presence as a painter. His work was well regarded by his contemporary Joseph Farrington noting “that the artist had six months work bespoke,” though Farrington also commented that Towne was a man of "coarse, debased manners and conversation."
The year 1796 witnessed Towne’s journey to London, a pivotal moment that expanded his artistic horizons. During his time in the capital, he exhibited at the prestigious Royal Academy, establishing connections with influential artists such as George Morland and Philip Jacques de Loutherbourg. Their influence left an indelible imprint on Towne’s evolving artistic style.
 
Between 1799 and 1823 he exhibited twelve works at the Royal Academy and four at the British Institution. He returned to Liverpool in 1810, and was a founder member of the Liverpool Academy, becoming vice-president in 1812-13, and exhibiting his work on and off there for several years.
 
Towne’s landscapes and animal paintings obtained great popularity along with his more specialized portraits of horses, dogs, and cattle. Many of his pictures were small, but occasionally he ventured into landscapes with cattle of larger size. He also painted in watercolors and was a candidate for admission to the Watercolour Society in 1809.
 
Returning to Liverpool around 1810, Towne solidified his place in the city’s artistic scene. His commitment to the arts was recognized when he became a member of the Liverpool Academy, eventually rising to the position of Vice-President from 1812 to 1813.
 
Charles Towne’s legacy endures not only through his artistic contributions but also as a testament to the transformative power of a lifelong artistic journey. His story was
painted across different cities and exhibited on prestigious canvases. To this day, Charles Towne’s works of art continue to inspire.