The first time I heard the name Samuel John Peploe was when I read Alexander Mccall Smith’s book, “44 Scotland Street: Book One in the 44 Scotland Series. The story revolves around the appearance and disappearance and re-appearance of a painting that may be a “Peploe.” Alexander Mccall Smith kept readers engaged in the chase to recover the painting.
Who was Samuel John Peploe?
Samuel John Peploe was a member of the Scottish Colourists who were active in the early twentieth century. His fellow painters included Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, George Leslie Hunter and John Duncan Fergusson. They all spent time in France and were influenced by French artists’ bold use of colour and free brushwork.

About Pink Roses, Chinese Vase
This work was painted during a time when Peploe was experimenting with using areas of bright colour in his still life paintings. Peploe had spent time studying in Paris and was influenced by contemporary French painting. He felt that every plane was to be represented by a change of colour and selected material for his still lifes which could be treated in flat areas of strong colour: lemons, oranges, roses, tulips, blue and white china, bowls and drapes were his main subjects. In this work the outlines are bold – some are blue or dark red – to emphasise the objects and their relation to one another. National Galleries Scotland
What a gorgeous painting. Love his colourful style. It is inspiring for Art Gowns. Art Gowns wants to embrace all artists. I did a Picasso Art Gowns post. I want to do other artists in Art gowns.
I did Starry Night on one of RR’s gowns. I thought it was great, but looking at it now, I could have done better.
https://graffitiglam.files.wordpress.com/2022/10/pesq8-copy.webp
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Resa – your gowns are exceptional – every one of them. I marvel at your creativity and design techniques. I know that Vincent would have been very pleased with your Starry Night creation. As he once wrote: “what is done with love is well done.” Hugs!!!
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Then I did it well! I do everything with love, thank you Vincent and Rebecca! {{hugs}}
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Love comes through every one of your posts and discussions. You shine a bright like in dark places. Hugs
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{{HUGS}}
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This is a delightful read, and of course the art you have included is really priceless. I love the bright colors that the artist has used, brave presentations of flowers and vase. I have enjoyed the paintings that you have put on this podcast! ! MORE than once!
The two who gave their excellent commentaries added so much to this excellent article. Very educational. Thank you for sharing am early Scottish artist! !
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I knew you would enjoy this painting and back story. The bright colours energize the room don’t they? The name “The Colourists” is a perfect description for this group of artists. Stay tuned for future posts that feature the other “Colourists.” Their bios are very interesting.
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Hi Rebecca, I do like this painting very much. A great choice to feature for this series.
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Many thanks for joining me the Scottish National Galleries, Robbie. There is always something interesting happening there.
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Fascinating and informative, especially since I am part Scottish! Thank you Rebecca.
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A striking painting and a very interesting post, Rebecca!
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I would never have heard of Samuel John Peploe if I hadn’t read a book. The connection between writing and art, storytelling and creativity is strong, Isn’t it? I am delighted that you enjoyed this post, Dave!
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Thank you for the art history lesson, Rebecca! I loved the video. The male presenter is so passionate about the subject! It was a joy to learn from him.
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I am delighted that you enjoyed the history and video. The Scottish National Galleries has an amazing collection of short videos that have added to my understanding of art. Over the past two years of Covid, Libraries, Art Galleries and Museums have made huge steps to provide access to information. It is heartening to see that GLAM organizations are gaining a wider audience by embracing a virtual space. I believe that open access to knowledge will be essential going forward. Exciting stuff!
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Oh, I agree wholeheartedly! What so many of the large museums and galleries have done to make their collections accessible online is remarkable and so appreciated!
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How beautiful. I love the colors in Peploe’s painting.
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