Our Modern and Contemporary Art auction on 18 March offers an eclectic snapshot of works from across the 20th century and beyond, from paintings and watercolours to limited edition prints and photographs.
Particular highlights include an exceptional 1956 painting of Wittenham Clumps by Ivon Hitchens. The work is a typical example of the artist’s elongated landscape format with a palette of sage greens interspersed with greys, whites and violets drawing the viewer over the water to the landscape beyond. The intersecting lines of the foreground contrast with the curve of the hills in the distance to create a sense of balance and harmony. The work is completely fresh to the market with a very special provenance having been purchased directly from the artist as a wedding present in early 1957 and has remained in the same family ever since.
Another highlight is a private collection of Irish pictures which showcases both paintings and works on paper by seminal modern Irish artists such as Markey Robinson, Gerard Dillon and Colin Middleton. The collection has been lovingly curated and pieced together over the past 20 years.
The group of works takes us on a journey into 20th century Irish art bringing us right up to the current day showcasing some of Ireland’s most sought after contemporary artists such as Felim Egan and Martin Finnin. The collection confronts themes of nostalgia and a search for identity and belonging which is illustrated through idyllic views of the West of Ireland.
Highlights from the collection include an early work on board by Markey Robinson of ‘Shawlies in a village’ and three works dating to the late 1960s by Gerard Dillon one of which illustrates ‘Pierrot and a Cat’ a motif Dillon returned to throughout the 1960s after experiencing the loss of his three brothers in quick succession. An Irish collection of works carefully pieced together which emanates a true sense of pride and Irishness.
The sale also includes ten works by the enduringly popular East Anglian artist Edward Seago. They include drawings, watercolours and oils ranging in price from £1,500 to £25,000 (+fees). The collection, from various consignors, show the breadth of his careers and his versatility.
They range from an early equestrian picture, inspired by his mentor, Sir Alfred Munnings, to his later quintessential views of coastal Norfolk and Suffolk and also his travels further afield to Italy and Hong Kong.
Also of interest will be a group from the corporate art collection of Collyer Bristow LLP which features an important group of oils by Edward Wolfe amongst others.
The sale also comprises works in a variety of media by firm favourites such as Fred Cuming, Donald McIntyre, Julian Trevelyan, Ruskin Spear, Mary Fedden and Enzo Plazzotta.
AUCTION DETAILS
Thursday 18 March | 10.30am
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE
This is an online auction with an auctioneer.
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