Expert: Jeni Andrews-Fraser - 1/6/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have this old painting purchased at auction years ago, titled origionally with tacking nails, also origional , "Health To The Bride", the painting is signed, and dated somewhere around 1938-1939, it depicts a courtyard with dogs, and horses and men in red 3/4 length coats top hats, drinking out of steins, cheering the bride and groom standing infront of a house.  Is this an origional, and if so, how much would it be worth?

ANSWER: Hello Miguel - and thank you for your question.  I have no idea if your painting is an original - nor do I undertake valuations.  For answers to both of these questions you will need to take the painting to a fine art dealer who has experience of early 20th century genre works of this ilk.
Good luck

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: if this painting is origional, what would it be worth in your mind?  Do you know much about this artist, and have you ever heard of this painting?  Is it possible to be real or should it belong in a museum.  Please let me know the answers to these questions for i would be very greatful if you could gide me in the right direction, to solving my puxxle regarding this artist.

thanks.

miguel

Answer
Hello again Miguel - Frank Moss Bennett (1874 - 1953) was a London artist who specialised in painting portraits, genre and historical subjects in the 'Victorian' style. Bennett was born in Liverpool. He studied art at St John's Wood Art School, the Slade School, and at The Royal Academy Schools, where he won a gold medal and a travel scholarship. His orginal oils now command many thousands of dollars (or even more Pounds!)

As to whether it belongs in an art gallery or museum - much would depend on the budget for the institution and whether it collected this kind of art.

Again - your best best is to take it to a fine art dealer who can undertake a valuation (I cannot) and advise you on its authenticity and what market (European, American etc,) might be interested in it, if an original.

Good luck