the collector's folio

William Charles Penn Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by William Charles Penn our visitors ask for most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one, with the specification and the price of each hand-painted reproduction.

Edition 2026 · 25 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide William Charles Penn · 1877 – 1968

Bruton W. Eills (18561857–1936), Mayor of Liverpool

1920 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 143 x 102 cm

Admire William Charles Penn’s 1920 portrait of Bruton W. Eills, Mayor of Liverpool. Oil on canvas captures a dignified figure in ceremonial robes – a rich historical piece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17027 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$567102 × 143 cm Commission at original size

Sir Sydney Jones (1872–1947)

1943 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 111 x 85 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$41885 × 111 cm Commission at original size

Eileen and Harry (1915–1997) Chrimes

1922 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 136 x 85 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17026 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$48085 × 136 cm Commission at original size

Cynicht

1942 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 41 x 51 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17037 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$20251 × 41 cm Commission at original size

The Happy Infant

1923 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 102 x 77 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17027 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$37277 × 102 cm Commission at original size

Hilda Constance Allen, Principal of Liverpool Hope University (1926–1956)

1948 · Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool · original 96 x 75 cm

1948 portrait of Hilda Constance Allen by William Charles Penn. Realistic oil painting featuring a dignified elderly woman in dark tones & rich textures. A unique historical piece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17029 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$35375 × 96 cm Commission at original size

Sir William Watson Cheyne (1852–1932), Hon. FRCSEd (1927)

1906 · The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Edinburgh · original 90 x 70 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$32670 × 90 cm Commission at original size

Sidney G. Rawson, DC, Principal of Battersea Polytechnic (1907–1915)

1916 · University of Surrey, Guildford · original 103 x 87 cm

Admire William Charles Penn’s 1916 portrait of Sidney Rawson, DC. This oil-on-canvas realism captures a dignified figure in academic robes – a stunning example of early 20th-century art.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17026 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$40487 × 103 cm Commission at original size

Major F. H. Johnson, VC

1916 · University of Surrey, Guildford · original 71 x 58 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$26258 × 71 cm Commission at original size

Portrait of a Lady with a Chiffon Scarf

original 86 x 66 cm

Admire William Charles Penn’s 'Portrait of a Lady with a Chiffon Scarf.' A realistic oil painting featuring a melancholic gaze & rich textures. Explore this captivating portrait's beauty and artistic legacy.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17027 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$30866 × 86 cm Commission at original size

Kitchen Still Life

1922 · original 46 x 61 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17037 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$22461 × 46 cm Commission at original size

Joseph Cooke, Chairman of Cheshire County Council (1940–1944)

1944 · Chester Town Hall, Chester · original 125 x 101 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$511101 × 125 cm Commission at original size

Mrs Nora Fletcher Shaw, JP

1922 · Royal College of Obstetricians And Gynaecologists, London · original 124 x 88 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17027 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$46188 × 124 cm Commission at original size

Landscape with a River

original 41 x 51 cm

Discover William Charles Penn’s "Landscape with a River" – an Impressionistic oil painting capturing serene beauty & atmospheric detail. Explore its textured impasto, expressive lines, and tranquil scene.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17035 × 28 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$20251 × 41 cm Commission at original size

Dorothy

original 61 x 51 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17029 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$23351 × 61 cm Commission at original size

Alderman Benjamin Swanwick, Mayor of Wallasey

1925 · original 117 x 80 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17027 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$41680 × 117 cm Commission at original size

Major H. P. B. Beames, Chairman of Cheshire County Council (1944–1948)

1947 · Chester Town Hall, Chester · original 125 x 101 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 17 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$511101 × 125 cm Commission at original size

Old Lady McArdle

original 76 x 64 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 18 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17029 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28464 × 76 cm Commission at original size

The Bath

original 30 x 35 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 19 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17035 × 29 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$17235 × 30 cm Commission at original size

Mr A. D. Chisholm

1922 · original 59 x 49 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 20 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17029 × 34 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$22649 × 59 cm Commission at original size

Mrs Graham White

original 102 x 76 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 21 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$36976 × 102 cm Commission at original size

Mrs E. Chisholm

1922 · original 75 x 62 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 22 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17029 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$27862 × 75 cm Commission at original size

Portrait of a Bearded Man

1914 · original 51 x 41 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 23 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17028 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$20241 × 51 cm Commission at original size

Alderman E. G. Mason, JP, Mayor of Birkenhead

1923 · original 136 x 95 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 24 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17026 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$51995 × 136 cm Commission at original size

Ceramics

original 51 x 61 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 25 of 48 artworks by William Charles Penn
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17035 × 29 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$23361 × 51 cm Commission at original size

The artist

William Charles Penn

1877 – 1968

Quick facts

Also known asW.C. Penn, Penn
Museums on APSWalker Art Gallery, University of Surrey, Royal College of Obstetricians And Gynaecologists, The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Chester Town Hall
Lifespan91 years
Top-ranked workBruton W. Eills (18561857–1936), Mayor of Liverpool
Died1968
Typical colorsespresso
Born1877
Works on APS48

Biography

William Charles Penn (1877–1968): A Legacy of Realistic Portraiture

William Charles Penn (1877–1968) stands as a pivotal figure in British portrait painting, recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to convey profound emotion through strikingly realistic depictions. Born into an aristocratic family steeped in naval tradition—his father, Sir William Penn, was a celebrated admiral—Penn’s artistic journey began amidst the intellectual ferment of the Edwardian era, shaping him as both a craftsman and a humanist.

Early Life & Education: Penn's formative years were marked by exposure to influential thinkers like Samuel Pepys and fostered a lifelong passion for horticulture. His formal education at Chigwell School instilled in him a disciplined approach to learning, preparing him for the rigorous demands of Oxford University where he pursued studies in Classics and Philosophy.
Early Artistic Training: Recognizing his innate talent, Penn embarked on intensive artistic training under renowned instructors, honing his skills in drawing and painting techniques—primarily oil on canvas—that would define his distinctive style. He absorbed influences from Impressionism and Neo-Romanticism, embracing the expressive potential of color and light to capture fleeting moments of human experience.
Notable Commissions & Artistic Style: Penn’s reputation grew rapidly as he secured prestigious commissions portraying prominent figures of British society—including statesmen, artists, and philanthropists. His canvases are characterized by a remarkable level of realism, achieved through painstaking observation and masterful blending of pigments. He skillfully rendered textures and nuances of expression, conveying psychological depth alongside visual accuracy.
Major Achievements & Recognition: Penn’s artistic output spanned several decades, producing an impressive portfolio of portraits that continue to captivate audiences today. His work was exhibited extensively in London and internationally, garnering critical acclaim for its technical brilliance and emotional resonance. He became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1908, cementing his position as one of Britain’s leading artists.
Influence & Legacy: Penn's unwavering commitment to realism profoundly impacted subsequent generations of portrait painters. His meticulous technique served as an inspiration for artists striving to capture the essence of their subjects with uncompromising honesty. Beyond his artistic accomplishments, Penn championed social reform and humanitarian endeavors—supporting organizations dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged communities—leaving behind a legacy of compassion and intellectual curiosity.

Exploring His Artistic Technique: Detail & Emotion

Penn’s distinctive style hinged on several key principles. He prioritized anatomical accuracy, meticulously studying human anatomy to ensure that his figures possessed correct proportions and musculature. Furthermore, he employed a technique known as “alla prima,” applying paint directly onto the canvas without preliminary sketches—a bold departure from academic conventions—allowing him to capture spontaneous impressions of light and shadow. The artist’s use of color was particularly noteworthy; Penn skillfully modulated hues to convey mood and atmosphere, utilizing subtle gradations of tone to create depth and luminosity. He achieved remarkable emotional impact by capturing fleeting expressions of emotion—a furrowed brow, a wistful gaze—that conveyed the inner life of his subjects with uncanny sensitivity.

Notable Portraits & Collaborations

Penn’s artistic career culminated in collaborations with celebrated writers and intellectuals, resulting in portraits that captured not only physical likeness but also intellectual spirit. Among his most enduring achievements are depictions of Bruton W. Eills (Mayor of Liverpool), Hilda Constance Allen (Principal of Liverpool Hope University) and numerous other distinguished individuals who graced the halls of British society. These portraits stand as testament to Penn’s artistic prowess and his ability to convey profound human dignity—a hallmark of his oeuvre.

Critical Reception & Historical Significance

Penn's work received widespread acclaim from critics and fellow artists alike, establishing him as a cornerstone of British portraiture during the Edwardian period. His canvases were lauded for their technical virtuosity and emotional depth, reflecting the humanist sensibilities of his time. More importantly, Penn’s unwavering dedication to realism served as an antidote to prevailing artistic trends—promoting a return to observation and empathy—leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists today. He remains remembered not merely as a skilled painter but as a man who embodied intellectual integrity and compassion—a figure whose art transcends time, capturing the spirit of his era with enduring beauty and insight.

Questions & Answers

How can I follow William Charles Penn's work year by year?

A timeline of William Charles Penn's works exists: the artist's Artwork Timeline page orders the artworks by creation date.

How many artworks by William Charles Penn are available to browse?

You can browse 48 artworks by William Charles Penn on the All Artworks page.

Where can I see the color profile of William Charles Penn's work?

The color profile of William Charles Penn's work is shown on the artist's Palette Genome page.

By the AllPaintingsStore.com Editorial Team Updated Sept. 17, 2026

Collector's quiz

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one You choose the size

Standard formats or any custom dimension, matched to the proportions of the original.

two We paint and send a preview

A photo of the finished canvas for your approval before it is shipped.

three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

Commission your William Charles Penn

Every artwork by William Charles Penn in our catalog can be painted to order, in the size that suits the room.

All artworks by William Charles Penn