Expert: Jeni Andrews-Fraser - 9/27/2007

Question
Hi I have found a painting in an old attic by the painter F. M. Bennett It is signed by him and dated 1950. It is on canvas and measures approx. 30ins x 24ins. On the back is the title The coaching inn.It is of a group of people round a table, A traveller at the open door with a view of a yard outside with a coach waiting. could you tell me about this artist and this painting please

Answer
Heloo Dennis - and thank you for your question.  Cursory research (on the internet) reveals:  "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."

I am not, personally, acquainted with this artist - nor with the particular scene you have found.  I suggest you take your painting to a local fine art dealer for a valuation if you are interested in its insurance or re-sale value.  Otherwise, enjoy your painting.  (It's not a 'masterpiece' but there is a market for such genre paintings.)

Cheers
Jeni