Rare Henry Scott Tuke Painting Emerges from Cornwall Collection
A rare and important painting by celebrated Newlyn School artist Henry Scott Tuke RA, RWS (1858–1929) has surfaced from a the Tony Martin Estate and is heading to auction this autumn.
Titled ‘Facing South’ and signed H.S. Tuke 1913, this expressive oil study captures the glowing, sun-drenched figure of Tuke’s favourite model Charlie Mitchell, painted en plein air on Newporth Beach, Falmouth, in the summer of 1913. Tuke’s bold impressionist brushwork and vibrant use of colour are on full display, reflecting light from the sea and sky across the human form.
Although listed in Tuke’s register as a "sketch" (R1118), the painting is now recognised as a fully realised and refined study. It later served as the basis for a larger work of the same name (R950), exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1921, where it drew significant attention.
The long-standing relationship between Tuke and his model adds further depth to the piece. Mitchell, who worked as Tuke’s boatman and general assistant for over 25 years, featured in many of his most famous works. Their personal and professional bond was such that Tuke left him £1,000 in his will.
What makes this painting particularly special is its exceptional provenance. It was sold directly by Tuke in 1925 to Captain C. E. Parkes, a British India Oil Company officer, as noted in the artist’s own diary. Parkes later gifted the work to Tony Martin of Looe, Cornwall, whose estate is now offering the painting for sale.
Framed and glazed, the painting remains housed in its original 1925 frame.
Facing South by Henry Scott Tuke
Medium: Oil on board
Signed and dated: H.S. Tuke 1913
Dimensions: 45cm x 29.5cm (subject size)
Provenance: From the Estate of Tony Martin, previously owned by Capt. C. E. Parkes
The painting will be offered for sale at Plymouth Auction Rooms on Wednesday 5th November 2025, with a pre-sale estimate of £10,000. Full details on Provenance and Catalogue notes are available.
