Another Gem

Jessica Hayllar was from a notable family of artists. Along with her father James, and her sisters Edith, Kate and Mary, she exhibited at numerous London venues including the Royal Academy. The Society of British Artists where this picture was shown was particularly favoured, as it gave women honorary membership and exhibited their pictures with no financial obligations. Both oils and watercolours were accepted. This picture is a reminder of what must have been a frequent occurrence in such a productive household. Propped on a chair, a work by a member of the family, `Another Gem’ of the picture’s title , is about to leave Castle Priory, Wallingford. On the floor is a Gladstone bag, a pair of gloves, and a distinctive black and white travelling rug. The Gem and its creator are about to depart in the hope that it will be selected for exhibition.

Jessica was devoted to the painting of azaleas. Few pictures of hers are free from a flower or two.