CHARLES DIXON (BRITISH, 1872-1934)

Awaiting the President

Signed, inscribed and dated 'Charles Dixon / Awaiting the President / 1913' (lower left)

Watercolour heightened with bodycolour

5 x 14¾in. (12.5 x 37.5cm.)

This view shows the British fleet awaiting the arrival of Raymond Poincare, the French President. Poincare, having negotiated the Entente Cordiale of 1904 was keen to strengthen British relations with France's key ally, Russia which he believed was a vital counter-balance to German aggression. Britain was equally keen to preserve her 'Imperial Isolation' and regarded the Entente somewhat less strategically than the emphasis France wished it to imply. This state visit took place on 14th June 1913 – almost exactly one year before the Sarajevo assassinations which catapulted Europe into World War One.

Condition Report

Paper time stained, modest fading.

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.