Richard Willes Maddox - Day Dreams

Richard Willes Maddox (1813 - 1853, British)

Day Dreams

oil on wood panel
signed R Willes Maddox
unframed: 35 x 26 cm (13.78 x 10.24 inches)
framed: 50 x 40 cm (19.69 x 15.75 inches)

Essay:

"Day Dreams" is a captivating painting by the English artist Richard Willes Maddox. The artwork depicts a young woman seated thoughtfully on a blue wooden bench, set against a backdrop of lush greenery. Dressed in a meticulously detailed gown, the woman holds an open book in her hand, yet her gaze is distant, lost in contemplation. One cannot help but wonder about the thoughts and dreams occupying her mind.

The mastery of Maddox is evident in the intricate rendering of the fabric and the subtle play of light and shadow, bringing both the subject and her surroundings to life. The artist’s attention to the textures of the textile is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his skill in capturing the delicate folds and sheen of the material.

Artist’s Background: 
Richard Willes Maddox, also known as Willis Maddox, was born in Bath in 1813. His early career was notably supported by William Beckford the Younger of Fonthill, for whom Maddox created several sacred pieces, including "The Annunciation," "The Temptation," and "The Agony in the Garden." Maddox made his debut at the Royal Academy in 1844 with a still life painting that became part of Beckford's collection.

In 1847, he exhibited his first significant work, "Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah." Throughout his career, Maddox painted numerous portraits of notable individuals, including Halil Aga Riskalla and the Turkish ambassador Mehemet Ali. His success in portraying distinguished Turks led to an invitation to Constantinople, where he painted several portraits for the Sultan. Maddox's prolific career was tragically cut short when he succumbed to fever in Pera, near Constantinople, on June 26, 1853.

Legacy:
Maddox left behind a rich legacy of portraits and sacred art, with numerous examples housed in Bath and Bristol. His works continue to be appreciated for their detailed realism and emotional depth, as exemplified by "Day Dreams" 

Provenance:
A Swedish private collection.

Compare with: 

Richard Willes Maddox "A lady at her toilet (1852)"
sold at Dreweatts Auctions 2023 for 17.500 GBP