A treasured painting, believed to be one of the most valuable in Warrington Museum & Art Gallery’s collection, has returned to the town hall after undergoing restoration works.
The oil painting Mountain Farm” by Henry Clarence Whaite was donated to the town by WD Houghton, Managing Director of a local wire-making firm, in 1890.
While the monetary value is not known, it is believed to be one of the most valuable with “significant artistic value”, says the council’s deputy leader Cllr. Jean Flaherty, who also chairs the Friends of Warrington Town Hall group.
Clarence Whaite was well-known for paintings of Welsh landscapes and was a former President of the Manchester Academy of Art. His works often come to prominence around St David’s Day.
Based on a line from Idylls of the King by Tennyson – ” to a meadow gemlike chased in brown wild and mowers mowing in it.”
Mayor of Warrington Cllr Mo Hussain said: “I’m delighted to welcome back A Mountain Farm, Llanrhychwyn, near Trefriw by Henry Clarence Whaite to the Town Hall. This beautiful painting is part of our town’s rich artistic heritage, and its return allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy a treasured piece of Warrington’s cultural history.”
Visitors to the town hall will have a chance to view the restored painting at the next Afternoon Tea organised by the Friends of the Town Hall on Friday, 31st October, which will be Halloween themed. There are two sittings of 20 people, and while most of the tickets have already been sold,d there are still a few available.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite via CLICK HERE
