A PAINTING of a young boy playing golf in what is believed to be North Berwick has come to the market, thought to be one of the earliest depictions of the sport.
The work by Scottish artist Alexander Nasmyth has been held by the Tennant family – of which the boy is a member – since it was painted in about 1780.
Much of the detail of the oil on canvas painting is not certain but this is the first time it has become available on the open market, with an estimated sale price of £4,000 to £6,000.
It is being sold by the descendent of Sir Charles Clow Tennant, 1st Baronet, a Scottish businessman, industrialist and Liberal politician.
He bought The Glen, an estate in southern Scotland in 1852, and The Tennant Cup, the oldest open amateur stroke play championship in the world, is named after him.
It was first contested in 1880, with the trophy gifted to Glasgow Golf Club by Charles Tennant, who also had a house in North Berwick.
Described by sellers Cheffins as a “charming” portrayal of the young golfer, the painting “offers the viewer a rare glimpse into the modern game”.
Nicolas Martineau, director, said: “Standing before us is an elegantly dressed boy in britches, tunic and large white lace collar at the point of driving off from the links, accompanied by his faithful companion, a spaniel with the beach and sea beyond.
“The picture comes by descent from collection of the industrialist and politician Sir Charles Clow Tennant (1823-1906), himself a keen and enthusiastic golfer and owner of a house at North Berwick, which is where the picture is thought to have been painted.”
The 87x68cm painting will be sold at auction on Wednesday at 10am, with a buyer’s premium of 25 per cent.
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