NEAPOLITAN SCHOOL (20TH CENTURY)

Fair and foul portraits of the S.S. ‘Devian’, circa 1915

Watercolour and gouache

Inscribed with titles

16½ x 25½in. (42 x 65cm.)

(2, a pair)

Ordered from Priestman of Southwick for the Romania Prima Soc Nationala de Nav Maritima in 1914, she was launched in 1915 as Argesul but changed to Devian when ownership was assumed by O.& W.Williams Co, Swansea. She was sold again in 1917 to W.& C.T.Jones SS Co Ltd and renamed Sanwen, but she was torpedoed and sunk by U-32 in September the same year with the loss of two crew whilst in passage between the Clyde and Naples carrying coal and coke, presumably the same route she served as Devian whose presumed Master had this pair of pictures done in the early days of World War One.

Condition Report

Fair: slight foxing and old backboard burn marks; Foul: Old crease and repair horizontally through middle, slight scuffing. New mounts and frames.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.