Description
Kenneth Jack AM MBE RWS (Australian, 1924–2006)
Billabong of the Yea River, 1944
Original Watercolour on Paper
Billabong of the Yea River is a rare and particularly appealing early landscape by renowned Australian artist Kenneth Jack. Painted in 1944, when Jack was approximately 19 years old, it predates his first solo exhibition and was completed many years before he became a full-time professional artist.
The peaceful regional Victorian subject has been beautifully observed. Mature gum trees rise naturally beside the billabong, while their trunks and surrounding vegetation are reflected across the still water. Open pasture and a small distant bridge lead the eye through the composition, giving this intimate watercolour a convincing sense of depth and place.
Jack’s careful observation of the Australian landscape is already evident in this very early work. The naturalistic treatment of the gum trees, restrained colours, delicate reflections and confident use of watercolour provide an uncommon glimpse of the artist’s developing technique.
The artwork is hand-signed and dated “Kenneth Jack 44” lower left and titled Billabong of the Yea River on the mount.
ARTWORK DETAILS
Artist: Kenneth Jack AM MBE RWS
Title: Billabong of the Yea River
Date: 1944
Medium: Original watercolour on paper
Signature: Hand-signed and dated “Kenneth Jack 44” lower left
Image size: 22 × 16 cm
Framed size: 33.5 × 28.5 × 2 cm
Stock number: TMC78191UP
ABOUT KENNETH JACK
Kenneth Jack was an accomplished Australian painter, watercolourist, printmaker and teacher whose career spanned approximately six decades. He became especially recognised for his atmospheric depictions of the Australian landscape, including historic country towns, mining settlements, rural buildings, waterways and coastal environments.
Jack won his first art prize at the Melbourne Royal Show at the age of 13. He later became a professional artist and was elected to the Royal Watercolour Society in 1977. His contribution to Australian art was recognised with an MBE in 1982 and appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia in 1987. His work is represented in significant public and private collections.
CONDITION
The original watercolour presents in great vintage condition, particularly considering its 1944 date. We have inspected the work and found no significant foxing, spotting or visible deterioration of the paper.
The artwork has been professionally reframed and mounted. The frame presents very well, with only minor imperfections around the joints. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Most artworks offered by TMC Art are vintage or antique and may display minor age-related characteristics. These are part of their history and should not be mistaken for the condition of a newly manufactured item.
PACKING AND DELIVERY
This artwork will be carefully protected with foam and packed in a purpose-made reinforced cardboard picture box. Our packing methods are designed to meet strict handling requirements and help the artwork arrive safely.
Free tracked Australian delivery is included in the purchase price. The parcel will require a signature upon delivery and will ordinarily be dispatched within three business days after cleared payment.
As we are an online-only art dealer, local collection and pre-purchase viewing are unavailable. Please contact us if you require further information or additional photographs before purchasing.
WHO WE ARE
TMC Art is a family-run online art dealer and part of The McCorry Collection. We help collectors, decorators and first-time buyers discover carefully selected Australian and international artworks.
Each artwork is individually researched, photographed, described and securely packed by our family before being offered for sale.
