John Smellie (British, 1886-1925) On the ClydeJohn Smellie (British, 1886-1925)On the Clyde signed 'John Smellie' (lower right)oil on canvas50.8 x 66cm (20 x 26in).ProvenancePrivate collection, UK (purchased in 1942-3); thence by descent to the present owner.John Smellie's distinctive depictions of summers on the West Coast, particularly Largs, Millport, Tarbert and Hunter's Quay, constitute an enduring niche in modern Scottish art. Taking his cue from Sir John Lavery and the Impressionists, he sketched his family on day trips and holidays 'doon the watter', revelling in the summer light and atmosphere on the steamers and bustling resorts in their 1920s heyday.Smellie's paintings are rare as he died aged just 38, having only recently had the opportunity to devote himself to the life of a professional artist. Nonetheless, he exhibited extensively at the Royal Glasgow Institute, The Royal Scottish Academy and the Paisley Art Institute between 1909 and 1926, and in 1923 had been elected a member of the Glasgow Art Club.The central figure's elegant yellow coat and stylish accessories, clearly demonstrate an element of modernity, youth and wealth, and is likely to have been the artist's sister Margaret, his principal model. The smart luggage and golf bag continue to provide hints of holidaying on the Scottish coast. Smellie uses the diagonal lines of the deck, the narrowing wake and hint of the steamers smoke as effective devices to lead the eye into the composition and create the illusion of depth and movement. We, the viewer, are transported on their holiday journey with them. This painting has been in the same private family collection for the past eighty years and clearly demonstrates that Smellie was an artist with an original vision and a burgeoning talent, sadly cut short.