10th May, 2016 12:00
Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Courageous')
51
[M] ARTHUR TWIDLE (BRITISH, 1865-1935)<br/>Britannia...
Britannia Needs No Bulwarks
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated 'Arthur Twidle 1912' (lower right) and inscribed with artist's titles and provenance to 1913 RA exhibition
21 x 29in. (53.5 x 74cm.) Contained in original frame
Provenance: Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, 1913, item number 323; David Cross Gallery, Clifton c.1975 to Private Collector.
Painted just two years before the outbreak of the Great War, the artist seems to be anticipating the struggles ahead with a seated Nelson contemplating tactics, presumably before the Battle of Trafalgar, and whose greatness of character embodies the finest virtues of England's most brilliant heroes throughout history: in the foreground King Arthur representing a strong and united nation; Sir Francis Drake who, against the odds beat the mighty Spanish Armada; and Cromwell whose famed organisational ability and rule of law was closely reflected by Nelson. In short, with so many virtues crowded into one man, Britain was invincible at sea in 1805 and remained so over a century later - a notion that was still very much reflected by - and throughout - the Royal Navy of 1912 which until recently had considered itself beyond the challenge of any two naval powers combined.
Sold for £2,480
Estimated at £2,000 - £3,000
(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)
Condition Report
Fine original condition with no evidence of touching; small area of craqueleur by left edge (behind Captain Hardy); original frame and slip - some re-touching to gilt edge on slip.
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.
Britannia Needs No Bulwarks
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated 'Arthur Twidle 1912' (lower right) and inscribed with artist's titles and provenance to 1913 RA exhibition
21 x 29in. (53.5 x 74cm.) Contained in original frame
Provenance: Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, 1913, item number 323; David Cross Gallery, Clifton c.1975 to Private Collector.
Painted just two years before the outbreak of the Great War, the artist seems to be anticipating the struggles ahead with a seated Nelson contemplating tactics, presumably before the Battle of Trafalgar, and whose greatness of character embodies the finest virtues of England's most brilliant heroes throughout history: in the foreground King Arthur representing a strong and united nation; Sir Francis Drake who, against the odds beat the mighty Spanish Armada; and Cromwell whose famed organisational ability and rule of law was closely reflected by Nelson. In short, with so many virtues crowded into one man, Britain was invincible at sea in 1805 and remained so over a century later - a notion that was still very much reflected by - and throughout - the Royal Navy of 1912 which until recently had considered itself beyond the challenge of any two naval powers combined.
Auction: Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Courageous'), 10th May, 2016
