Persian Kittens Playing Tea Party — Oil Painting by Agnes Augusta Talboys RWA

Agnes Augusta Talboys RWA (British, 1863–1940) Persian Kittens Playing Tea Party, circa 1910 Oil on canvas, signed A refined and charming Edwardian animal painting depicting six Persian kittens gathered around an elegant tea service. Combining playful narrative with accomplished early twentieth-century technique, this is a highly attractive and collectible example of Talboys’ most sought-after subject matter from her prime period. Composition and technique The scene is arranged across a green-draped tabletop, with six Persian kittens placed in a carefully balanced, engaging group. To the left, two grey kittens tussle in a wicker basket, contrasted by a third kitten that pauses and looks outward, drawing the viewer into the composition. At centre, a white kitten reclines beside a finely rendered cup and saucer, while another white kitten sits upright behind, adding vertical emphasis and depth. To the right, a grey kitten peeks from behind the teapot, its tilted head creating a natural focal point. Talboys’ brushwork is soft yet assured, particularly in the rendering of fur, where layered strokes and subtle tonal transitions create convincing texture and volume. The porcelain tea service is painted with greater precision, introducing crisp edges and decorative detail that contrasts beautifully with the kittens’ plush coats. The palette is a notable strength: silvery greys and soft whites are set against a darker, atmospheric background, anchored by the rich green tablecloth and enlivened by blue-and-white porcelain with warm floral accents. Historical significance Dating to Talboys’ admired Edwardian period, the work reflects the era’s affection for companion animals and the popularity of Persian cats in fashionable British interiors at the turn of the twentieth century. The canvas retains the original Winsor & Newton, London supplier’s stamp verso, supporting an early twentieth-century execution and the use of professional-grade materials. About the artist Agnes Augusta Talboys RWA was born in Bristol in 1863 and became one of Britain’s most accomplished painters of cats and kittens. Closely associated with the Royal West of England Academy, she exhibited and built a reputation for combining technical skill with characterful observation. Her most desirable works date from the late Victorian and Edwardian years, and her Persian cat compositions remain in strong demand with collectors internationally. Signed Signed by Agnes Augusta Talboys RWA in a confident, period-consistent hand that integrates naturally with the painted surface. The presence of an original signature strengthens attribution and enhances desirability. Dimensions Framed: 64 cm high x 89.5 cm wide x 4 cm deep Canvas: 46.5 cm x 73 cm Frame Presented in a recently fitted Larson Juhl LJS Prague moulded decorative gilt wood frame, chosen to complement the painting’s period character and to provide strong wall presence. Provenance Painted on the artist’s original Winsor & Newton, London prepared canvas Private collection Clevedon Salerooms, Bristol, Interiors Sale, January 2025 Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD Condition Fine used condition. The original unlined canvas shows age-related foxing, staining, and craquelure consistent with period and materials. Minor historic touch-ups are present in background areas. The paint surface remains stable and visually pleasing. The frame is recent, with small handmade imperfections consistent with its manufacture. Key features Edwardian oil on canvas cat painting by Agnes Augusta Talboys RWA Six Persian kittens with tea service subject, circa 1910 Signed example on Winsor & Newton prepared canvas Recently framed in decorative gilt wood moulding Strong decorative appeal and collector demand Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.