Lot Essay
Ralph Hedley, the son of a carpenter, was born in Gilling West, North Yorkshire in 1851. Two years after his birth, Hedley's father moved the family north to Newcastle in search of work and they settled in Elswick, the west part of the city, which was a centre for shipbuilding and the manufacture of armaments.
Hedley enrolled at the local art school, where he was trained under the direction of William Bell Scott, whose influence on him was lasting. He also learnt the arts of carving and gilding, setting up a carving workshop in St. Mary's Place, Newcastle. Once this became established he was able to concentrate on his painting. Alfred G. Hall, the model for the 'mate' in the present picture, was employed there.
His First Voyage, exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1893, was painted at the height of his career and is characteristic in its combination of gentle realism and humour, capturing the sensations of a young cabin boy who experiences the open sea for the first time.
We are grateful to John Millard for his help in preparing this catalogue entry.
Hedley enrolled at the local art school, where he was trained under the direction of William Bell Scott, whose influence on him was lasting. He also learnt the arts of carving and gilding, setting up a carving workshop in St. Mary's Place, Newcastle. Once this became established he was able to concentrate on his painting. Alfred G. Hall, the model for the 'mate' in the present picture, was employed there.
His First Voyage, exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1893, was painted at the height of his career and is characteristic in its combination of gentle realism and humour, capturing the sensations of a young cabin boy who experiences the open sea for the first time.
We are grateful to John Millard for his help in preparing this catalogue entry.