#142 Hans Heysen Framed Print "The Three Gums"

"The Three Gums" Sir Hans Heysen framed print, 1915-20.

Approx. 70 x 90cm, oil on canvas, print.

In The three gums, Heysen depicted the interlocking arch of three great white trees. Two cattle and a farmer echo, on a much smaller scale, the three-part conversation. This painting was first exhibited as White gums in 1915, and the Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria were interested in purchasing it. But they deferred a decision about the purchase of the painting because they questioned Heysen’s nationality. Heysen subsequently re-painted the foreground and re-titled it The three gums before selling it to the Ballarat Art Gallery in 1921.

Thanks to Shane Cassidy (c/o resident of Hahndorf Resort) for this kind donation.