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William E.C. Morgan

1903 - 1979

The Brook by William E.C. Morgan
 

The Brook   1930

  Original line engraving.
Signed, titled, numbered and dated in pencil.
S 290 x 234 mm; P & I 190 x 167 mm
SOLD
 
Brilliant impression with strong, clear line. From the only edition of 50 signed and numbered proofs.

The monumental nude figures and surreal landscapes of Morgan’s remarkable line engravings possess a strange natural enchantment unique to this artist’s work. The Brook, produced at the height of Morgan’s ability as an engraver, encapsulates his style to perfection. Although entirely classical in its inspiration, this image is oddly reminiscent of the bizarre art of the German Symbolist, Richard Muller. It remains one of the outstanding line engravings of the period.

Morgan did not comply with contemporary developments in the art of line engraving and harboured a healthy dislike of what he considered to be the scratchy freedom of modern etching style. Instead, he preferred to nurture the old skills of fine line engraving, turning to the more serious outlook and the perfection of technique found during the Renaissance. His principal source of inspiration was the work of Albrect Dürer and both Dürer’s style and technique are clearly reflected in his most elaborate engraved plates such as The Brook.

On cream laid J Whatman paper with full margins and deckle edge. Very fine original condition. Image surface excellent.