Henry Potter
Stevens (1875–1965) was a distinguished British chemist, artist, and scholar
whose career bridged science and the arts. Educated at Oxford University and
the University of Heidelberg, he became a leading authority in industrial
chemistry, particularly in the rubber industry, publishing several influential
technical works in the early 20th century. Alongside his scientific career,
Stevens was an accomplished artist, producing watercolours and etchings that
were exhibited at venues including the Royal Academy and other notable London
and regional galleries.
In later life,
Stevens gained recognition as a serious collector and writer on Asian
decorative arts, especially Japanese inrō and Chinese objects. His analytical,
scholarly approach—shaped by his scientific background—led to important
articles in Oriental Art magazine during the 1950s. After his death, his
collections were dispersed through major auction houses, and his work remains
represented in museum collections such as the British Museum.
I have acquired a
number of watercolours by Henry Potter Stevens. This listing is for a single
artwork, as detailed below
Medium:
Watercolour on laid paper
Signature: Signed
and titled lower right and again verso.
Condition:
Reasonable condition, with age toning, a slight darker line of toning to the margins from previous mounting, faint foxing in part and other minor surface marks / blemishes.
Framing: Unframed
Painting size: 45.5cm x 29cm.