John Nesbitt, The Road Between Lamish & Brodick, Isle Of Arran, Scotland, 1870s, Oil Painting, Framed

John Nesbitt.
Irish ( b.1831 – d.1904 ).
The Road Between Lamish & Brodick, Isle Of Arran.
Oil On Canvas.
Signed Lower Left.
Image size 9.4 inches x 13.4 inches ( 24cm x 34cm ).
Frame size 19.5 inches x 23.4 inches ( 49.5cm x 59.5cm ).

This original oil painting is by the Scottish artist John Nesbitt and dates from around 1870.
The painting is presented and supplied in its original period frame. The frame and slip have been restored whilst in previous ownership, the gilding losses overpainted with gold paint. The canvas and painted surface remains unrestored but the painted surface has had a light surface clean. The periphery of the canvas shows evidence of rubbing against the frame and therefore there are small areas of paint loss revealing the canvas primer underneath.
This antique painting is in a good original condition that represents its age. The frame is sturdy and clean and sets off the painting to its very best potential. It is supplied ready to hang and display.
The painting is signed lower left.

Previously with picture dealers Doig & McKechnie of George Street, Edinburgh between 1883 & 1895.

Although best known as a Scottish landscape and seascape artist John Nesbitt was actually born in Ireland in 1831, the son of Frances Nesbitt and Ann (Harper) Nesbitt. He spent most of his youth there and when 23 married Sarah Robinson. They had three sons, and it is thought that John worked during this time as a photographer. Sadly, his wife died of a lung condition in 1866, leaving John to earn a living and care for his family. By this time the family had moved to Scotland and made their home in George Street, Edinburgh. Around this time John gave up photography and became a full- time landscape artist. He worked from a studio in Princes Street, Edinburgh and later in George Street, where the family lived.

Nesbitt enjoyed success as an artist, exhibiting 16 works at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition between 1870 and 1888. He also exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy. He painted in both oil and watercolour and favoured the shores of the eastern coast of Scotland, the Isles, and various lochs. He also painted back in his homeland of Ireland. He was known for his subdued palette and quiet subtle atmosphere.

In 1876 Nesbitt married again, to Henriette Sumichrast, and they had another son and a daughter. Tragically, Henriette died from complications of childbirth when their daughter was born. Once again, John was left with the dual roles of breadwinner and carer. He married again, some eleven years later, to Ellen Moffat, with whom he spent the rest of his life.

In addition to his artistic career and considerable family responsibilities Nesbitt was a man who was part of his community. He was a proficient violinist and leader of the Edinburgh Amateur Orchestral Society. He was also a member of the Scottish Conservative Club.

Nesbitt died on 15th July 1904, aged 73. Today his work is represented in the permanent collection of the Glasgow Art Gallery.



This original oil on canvas painting by John Nesbitt depicts the scenic road between Lamlash and Brodick on the Scottish Isle of Arran. It is signed by the artist in the lower left section. The artwork beautifully captures the rugged, tranquil landscape of the Scottish Highlands, with towering mountains in the background and rolling hills covered in earthy tones of brown, green, and purple heather in the foreground. A lone shepherd is seen guiding his flock of sheep along a winding path, adding a sense of scale and serenity to the scene. The soft, moody sky, with its subtle cloud formations, enhances the overall atmosphere of this classic Scottish landscape painting.

Perfect for lovers of traditional 19th-century landscapes, this artwork is a fine example of Nesbitt’s ability to portray the untamed beauty of Scotland’s natural scenery.