Title

Mortimer Menpes R.I., R.B.A., R.E.: An Australian Master

Venues

Peter Walker Fine Art. (1 July 2024 – 1 July 2024)

Date

(2024)

Summary

Single-artist exhibition. Located: Australia (SA). Prints; Paintings.

Country of context

Australia

Abstract

Peter Walker Fine Art is proud to present an exhibition of paintings and etchings by Mortimer Menpes. The Gallery has been championing the artists over several decades and exhibitions and is pleased to see the recognition that the artists is now getting in his home country as well as the continued international recognition.

Mortimer Menpes was a writer, etcher and painter who was considered one of the greatest artists living and working in London in the late 19th century, and was a friend to royalty and high society, while his sellout exhibitions were the talk of the town.

Menpes was born at Port Adelaide in 1855. He studied at the Adelaide School of Design and in 1875 moved to London. In 1880 he met the famous American artist James Whistler, prompting him to leave art school to study informally under him. As a result, Menpes's reputation was soon established. He regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy, was elected to the Royal Society of Painters and Etchers and became a member of the Society of British Artists.

Menpes traveled widely in Europe, India and Japan where he found inspiration for many of his works. Menpes also wrote a number of biographies, including ones on Lord Kitchener, Whistler, Gainsborough and Rembrandt and as a book publisher he established the Menpes Press for publishing colour reproductions of the Old Masters.

​Menpes held many exhibitions that placed him at the heart of the London art scene, and society. His house parties and exhibition openings became a central part of London's social life.

[Peter Walker Fine Art exhibition introduction, 2024].

The exhibition comprised 2 paintings, 1 watercolour, 1 drawing, 1 manuscript with drawing, 30 etchings, 5 postcards of works and a group of signed letters.

Last Updated

28 Mar 2025