The Introduction

Ernest Albert Waterlow painted 'The Introduction' in 1882, during a pivotal decade in his career. Just nine years after winning the prestigious Turner medal for landscape painting at the Royal Academy, Waterlow was establishing himself as a master of both oil and watercolour landscapes 'handled with grace and distinction,' as contemporary critics noted. By 1882, he was on the cusp of election to the Royal Watercolour Society (which would come in 1880 as an associate), and this work reflects the careful observation and refined technique that would eventually lead to his knighthood in 1902 and election as a Royal Academician in 1903.

While Waterlow is best known for his landscape paintings—his 'Galway Gossips' hangs in the Tate collection—'The Introduction' suggests he also explored figural subjects and social scenes. The title implies a moment of formal presentation between individuals, a popular Victorian theme that explored manners, class, and social rituals. Created during the height of Victorian society's emphasis on propriety and social convention, this work would have resonated with contemporary audiences familiar with the delicate dance of introductions. Waterlow's training at the Royal Academy and his connection to prominent families (his uncle was Sir Sydney Waterlow) gave him intimate knowledge of these social worlds, lending authenticity to such scenes.