Dorothea Francis was a Melbourne-based painter and illustrator and member of the George Bell School circle. Francis is best known for her early modernist approach to paintings, often creating representations of coastlines, portraits and still lifes. The elder sister of fellow artist Margaret Francis, Dorothea Francis started painting at the age of seven, and by the age of 19, she was exhibiting with the Melbourne Society of Painters and Sculptors and later with the Melbourne Contemporary artists.


In ‘Untitled (Peace Lillies),’ Francis represents a floral still life centered around the prominent peace lilies. In this oil painting, Francis uses a warm, earth-toned colour palette to create a richly textured work alive with intimacy and atmosphere. The lack of symmetry in the bouquet, paired with the layered, thick brushwork, gives the composition a natural, slightly untamed feel. This work captures the flower’s presence and offers quiet, contemplative viewing.


Educated at the influential George Bell School, Francis’ works embrace a diversity of subject matter and styles. The George Bell School circle pioneered the Modernist movement in Melbourne, rejecting traditional representational techniques in favour of approaches inspired by Impressionism, Cubism, and other developments in European Modernism.


Newly re-appreciated and recognised for her contribution to the Australian modernist canon, Francis’ work is held in the State Library of Victoria and Heide Museum of Modern Art. For lovers and collectors of mid-century Australian art, and those fascinated by women’s artistic perspectives, ‘Untitled (Peace Lilies)’ is a wonderful addition to a collection.

Dorothea FRANCIS (1903 - 1975)
'Untitled (Peace Lilies)' 1950
oil on board
Image Size: 50 x 39 cm
Dimensions: 69 x 58 x 5 cm
Signed: Dorothea Francis lower right
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Condition: Excellent
(c) The Artist or Assignee