Portrait of the Artist: bust, in an oval c.1901/2 |
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The original copper plate etched by Augustus John, depicting his famous self-portrait in an oval. Unique.
Ref: Campbell Dodgson 9
P 128 x 102 mm
SOLD
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The original copper plate etched by Augustus John, depicting his famous self-portrait in an oval. Unique.
Augustus John’s remarkable self-portrait etchings are the most sought after of the considerable body of prints to have been made by this famous Welsh artist. Thought to have been etched during Augustus John’s stay in Liverpool, where he taught at the University from 1901-1902, this etching was not published in a formal edition until issued by the Chenil Gallery in 1906, when 25 proofs were printed from this plate. The plate was then scored with cancellation lines and was stored carefully - it remains exactly as left by Augustus John and Knewstub in 1906.
Of all of Augustus John’s searching self-portrait etchings, Portrait of the Artist: bust, in an oval is perhaps the most deeply introspective, betraying the most sensitive aspects of the artist’s true character. Worked with care and detail, there is an intensity to this highly personal study shared only by the artist’s magnificent Tête Farouche.
This plate could still be printed perfectly successfully and the cancellation lines could be repaired for printing an edition in the future.
Provenance: From the personal collection of the artist and thence by descent. Excellent original condition. |
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