Frederick Delius

Sitterback to top

• Frederick Delius (1862-1934), Composer. Sitter in 13 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Ernest Procter (1886-1935), Artist. Artist of 15 portraits, Sitter in 1 portrait.

This portraitback to top

A Bradford-born composer of choral and orchestral works, Delius's success was established in Germany before his merits were recognised, largely due to Sir Thomas Beecham, in Britain. For this portrait Proctor sketched the artist listening to a rehearsal for the Delius festival held at the Queen's Hall in West London in November 1929. It is a study for the larger painting in the collection of the Royal Albert Hall which shows the composer in his wheelchair. The use of a simulated rosewood frame is likely to a response to the relaxation in 1920 of the rule at the Royal Academy that all exhibitors use gilt frames.

Linked publicationsback to top

• Saumarez Smith, Charles, The National Portrait Gallery: An Illustrated Guide, 2000, p. 191
• Saumarez Smith, Charles, The National Portrait Gallery, 1997, p. 191
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 172
• Simon, Jacob, The Art of the Picture Frame: Artists, Patrons and the Framing of Portraits in Britain, 1997 (accompanying the exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery from 8 November 1996 - 9 February 1997), p. 81

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Disability
• In profile
• Music tour
• On display at the Gallery