Henry George Hills, Town Clerk
Oil painting by Charles Ernest Butler representing Henry George Hills, Town Clerk. 1912
The painting depicts a man seated at a desk, engaged in writing but facing the viewer. He is dressed in formal attire, which includes a dark robe with intricate patterns on the sleeves and a watch hanging from it. This attire is typical of town clerks role. He also wears a white wig, similar to the ones barristers wear in court.
He holds a red pen in their right hand and appears to be writing on a piece of paper that rests on a stack of papers on top of an ornate wooden desk. The setting is dimly lit, with the light source seemingly coming from the left side. This lighting casts shadows and highlights the textures of the clothing and objects in the painting.
Hills served as Town Clerk of Wandsworth, a senior administrative position responsible for overseeing council operations, legal affairs, and civic records. He passed away in 1931 and is buried at Putney Vale Cemetery, London.
Artist Biography
Charles Ernest Butler (1864–1933) Portrait, Landscape, and Mythological Painter Born in St Leonards-on-Sea, Sussex, Butler was known for his evocative portraits, landscapes, and figure subjects, often drawing on mythological themes. He trained at St John's Wood School of Art and the Royal Academy Schools, exhibiting at prestigious venues including the Royal Academy, The London Salon, and the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool. His work reflects a blend of academic technique and imaginative storytelling.
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