Swing, Succeed, Repeat – Golf in Paintings

Did you know golf was born in Scotland? Well, not exactly, but Scotland, especially the town of St. Andrews, is known worldwide as the “home of golf.” No wonder various Scottish artists depicted this sport! Not only that but even Rembrandt was inspired by golf players! Are you ready to explore golf in art?

The Netherlands

Surprise, surprise! The first golf work we present to you is not Scottish at all! I thought that golf was born in the UK. However, nowadays, it is generally accepted that golf developed from other ancient games such as the ones played in China! Another early version of golf was kolven (or kolf), which was played in the Netherlands in the Middle Ages. I had no idea that Rembrandt made etchings of golfers! But here it is!

Yet another Dutchman depicts golf. This time, it’s a winter edition on ice! Why didn’t we really associate golf with the Netherlands? It’s probably because the game did not find international popularity until the late 19th century when it spread into the British Empire and the United States.

Scotland

The painter David Allan and his subject, the surgeon William Inglis, were keen members of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, the oldest golf club in the world. Inglis and his caddy (the boy carrying golf clubs) stand on Leith Links, about two miles from the city center, where the club was then located. Behind Inglis, we can see the annual trophy parade. Here, a golf club with silver balls attached to it is presented to the city and carried across the Links.

This painting shows the climax of a match played on the Old Course at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in St. Andrews (my town!). Sir David Baird and Sir Ralph Anstruther play against Major Hugh Lyon Playfair and John Campbell of Glen Saddel. This complex scene, which includes over fifty individual portraits, was painted with the help of photographs of some of the golfers.

Ireland

Sir John Lavery RA was born in Belfast, Ireland, but he studied painting in Glasgow. Therefore, he is associated with the Glasgow School. He is best known for portraits and wartime depictions. However, he often painted people being active and playing sports like tennis.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our little selection of golf paintings. Golf is a great sport that requires spending a lot of time outdoors. It’s always good for you, especially when the sun is shining and the grass is green (which on the golf course is always the case!). Enjoy the game!