Original Drawing
William Conor OBE RHA — Crayon on Paper — “Portrait of Mary Connell”
Rare named portrait study from the 1930s
Key Details
Artist: William Conor OBE RHA (1881–1968)
Title: “Portrait of Mary Connell”
Medium: Crayon on paper with subtle colour wash
Support: Paper, framed under glass
Signature: Signed upper left “Conor”
Dimensions: Image: 31 × 23 cm (12.2 × 9.1 in); Frame: 46 × 39 cm (18.1 × 15.4 in)
Condition: Good vintage condition; paper cockled in places; frame very good.
Provenance: Private collection; handwritten label verso identifying sitter and date
Description
An evocative crayon portrait by William Conor, capturing the named sitter “Mary Connell” in a calm, reflective pose. Executed with expressive linear work and subtle colour washes, this drawing dates from the 1930s and retains its original frame and handwritten label verso. A scarce opportunity to acquire a named study by one of Ireland’s most significant twentieth century artists.
About the Artist
William Conor was born in Belfast in 1881 and became one of Ireland’s leading artists of the twentieth century. Trained at the Belfast Government School of Design, he is best known for his empathetic depictions of everyday life in Ulster, working extensively in chalk, pastel, and crayon. Conor exhibited widely, including more than 190 works at the Royal Hibernian Academy between 1918 and 1967, becoming an Associate in 1930 and a full Academician in 1946. He was awarded the OBE in 1952 for his contribution to the arts. His work is represented in major public collections, including the Ulster Museum where over fifty pieces are held.
Estimated Date
Circa 1930s (as noted on verso label)
Provenance & Notes
The handwritten verso label identifies the sitter as Mary Connell and records a 1930s date. Though public records do not confirm her identity, the naming adds personality and authenticity to the work. This is a genuine period drawing by an important Irish artist and will be securely packaged and shipped fully insured.
