Details
Augustus John, O.M., R.A. (1878-1961)
Portrait of Eileen Hawthorne
oil on canvas
22 x 18in. (55.8 x 45.7cm.)
Portrait of Eileen Hawthorne
oil on canvas
22 x 18in. (55.8 x 45.7cm.)
Literature
M. Holroyd, Augustus John II, The Years of Experience, London, 1975, p.89
Michael Holroyd (loc. cit) comments of the sitter 'John's principal mistress during these years was Eileen Hawthorne, 'an uncommon and interesting type,' he suggested to Maurice Elvey, 'at any rate she would like to do some work in films'. Young and very beautiful, she did most of her work for artists, with whom she was extremely popular. Pictures of her constantly appeared in the press - a new portrait by Lewis Baumer or Russell Flint; an eager advertisement for bathcubes, lingerie, eau-de-cologne; or simply as 'Miss 1933'. The most extraordinary feature of these pictures was that none of them looked in the least alike. She had developed a most versatile appearance, and as queen of the magic world of cosmetics she could change her looks from day to day. This was her 'mystery'. She was known by the newspapers as the girl of a thousand faces. Each morning she re-created herself, and again each evening. Superficially, it was impossible to tire of her.'
Michael Holroyd (loc. cit) comments of the sitter 'John's principal mistress during these years was Eileen Hawthorne, 'an uncommon and interesting type,' he suggested to Maurice Elvey, 'at any rate she would like to do some work in films'. Young and very beautiful, she did most of her work for artists, with whom she was extremely popular. Pictures of her constantly appeared in the press - a new portrait by Lewis Baumer or Russell Flint; an eager advertisement for bathcubes, lingerie, eau-de-cologne; or simply as 'Miss 1933'. The most extraordinary feature of these pictures was that none of them looked in the least alike. She had developed a most versatile appearance, and as queen of the magic world of cosmetics she could change her looks from day to day. This was her 'mystery'. She was known by the newspapers as the girl of a thousand faces. Each morning she re-created herself, and again each evening. Superficially, it was impossible to tire of her.'