35-Guinea paiting is star of auction

Apr 7 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

IT was 64 years ago that council officer Henry Morris snapped up a Northumberland painting by top artist L S Lowry for less than £40.

Now the view of Berwick is to come on to the market for the first time and is expected to fetch up to £500,000.

The study of Berwick market Place in 1935 will be the star item in Christies London auction of 20th Century British Art on May 21.

The work was acquired for 35 guineas directly from Lowry’s agent by Henry Morris, who was chief education officer of Cambridgeshire County Council.

Part of the Cambridgeshire Schools’ Art Collection, it is now being offered for sale by Cambridgeshire County Council to raise funds to safeguard the authority’s cultural programme.

Lowry had been advised by his doctor to take a break in Berwick for the quality of air.

Lowry liked Berwick so much that after his mother’s death he considered moving there.

Rachel Hidderley, Christie’s international specialist, said: “This is a wonderful example of a top quality work by one of the 20th Century’s most popular artists.

“The painting is a classic street scene by L S Lowry, painted during the golden, middle years of his career, and depicts Berwick just before the Second World War.

“It shows a bright and bustling street with Lowry figures going about their daily business. With its unbroken primary source provenance, and excellent original condition, this is a highly desirable work of art.

“Not one but three of his famous, mischievous dogs scamper through the scene.

“The perspective draws the eye through Marygate to the Town Hall, a view which is largely unchanged 74

years on.”

David Harty, Cambridgeshire County Council Cabinet member for learning, said: “The painting was a shrewd investment by Henry Morris on behalf of Cambridgeshire County Council and we believe the time is now right to sell it.”