Interior scene with figures luncheoning, a 18¼ x 21¾in (46.5 x 55cm) oil on canvas, was regarded as a fine example of the artist’s earlier figurative work, showing the influence of James Tissot in style and composition.
Having lived in Cornwall for 12 years, where he was part of the Newlyn school of artists, Tayler exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1884. This work was signed and dated 1890, the year before he exhibited at the Paris Salon and before he began to focus more on historical scenes, portraits and cricketing pictures.
It came to the West Norwood, south London, saleroom from a private collection where it had been for a number of years and was in good original condition.
With its attractive subject adding to its artistic quality – the depiction and placement of the figures and details of the interior decoration were particularly admired – it was strongly contested against a £3000-5000 estimate at the July 17 auction.
Bringing a number of phone bidders on the day, it was eventually knocked down at £27,000 to a UK buyer.
Designs on interiors
According to the Art Sales Index, the only works by Tayler to have made more in the last five years were both interior scenes. The Letter, a painting of a woman at her desk, made £40,000 at Christie’s in December 2018, while Bless, O God, these Thy gifts to our use, a painting of a family saying grace, fetched $48,000 (£33,145) at Bonhams New York in May 2016.
