Antique Framed Botanical Etching Scotland C.1920

Original Antique Botanical Etching by Thomas Callender Campbell Mackie M.B.E. (Scottish, 1886–1952)

A refined and botanically accomplished etching depicting wild blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) in simultaneous flower and fruit — a compositional device that shows both the scientific eye and the decorative sensibility of its maker.

Thomas Callender Campbell Mackie M.B.E., A.R.I.B.A., A.R.I.A.S. was one of the most significant figures in Scottish design education of the 20th century. Appointed Head of Design at Glasgow School of Art in 1920, he shaped a generation of Scottish designers and architects over three decades. A multi-disciplinary talent — architect, ship interior designer, painter, printmaker and design theorist — he exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy continuously from 1912 to 1951, as well as at the Royal Academy in London. His works are held in public collections including Glasgow Life Museums, Perth Art Gallery, and Glasgow School of Art. He authored Pattern (Longmans Green & Co., London, 1928), a treatise on design.

Medium: Etching, pencil signature
Artist: Thomas Callender Campbell Mackie M.B.E. (1886–1952)
Origin: Scottish, C.1920
Frame: Dark stained hardwood; white multi-line mount
Condition: Good; consistent with age
Institutional collections: Glasgow Life Museums; Lillie Art Gallery; Perth Art Gallery; Glasgow School of Art