Edward Barnard Lintott (British, 1875-1951)

Signed: E.B. Lintott, (upper, right)

" Portrait of Lady Diana Cooper " circa 1925

(1892-1986) 

Oil on canvas

44 1/8" x 34"

Housed in a 2" Carved Frame with a 3/8" Liner

Overall Size: 47 3/4" x 37 3/4"

Light stretcher marks, in otherwise very good condition. 

Understanding the Painting

Painted circa 1925, this portrait depicts Lady Diana Cooper when her celebrated beauty and theatrical career had made her a prominent figure in British society. Her famous role as the Madonna in Max Reinhardt’s The Miracle offers an intriguing connection to the lace headdress and quiet stillness seen here, although the portrait does not necessarily depict her in that role.

Lintott balances Cooper’s elegance with an intimate, relaxed setting. Her direct gaze anchors the composition, while the softly painted silk, lace and pale blue cushions reveal his sensitivity to texture and light. The small green book beneath her hand adds a personal touch, inviting us to consider the woman beyond her public reputation.

About the Artist

Edward Barnard Lintott (1875–1951) was a British-born painter known for portraits, landscapes and still lifes. Born in London, he continued his artistic education in Paris, studying at the Académie Julian under Jean-Paul Laurens and Benjamin-Constant. His training provided a foundation in drawing and figure painting, complemented by a sensitive approach to color and light.

Lintott’s varied career included service as secretary to the British ambassador in Russia before returning to painting. He later exhibited with established American galleries, including Knoedler, Macbeth and Marie Sterner. His portrait subjects included Edith Roosevelt, wife of President Theodore Roosevelt. Across his work, careful observation and freely handled brushwork gave his subjects both dignity and warmth.