AUGUSTUS JOHN RA (1878-1961)
Self Portrait, 1920
etching and drypoint on laid paper, signed and dated in pencil, from an edition of 105, with full margins
17.5 x 12.8 cm
Born in Tenby, Wales, John was the son of a solicitor and brother of the painter, Gwen John. He was one of the most prominent artistic personalities of his day, famous for his bohemian lifestyle, womanising and fascination with gypsies; also renowned as a brilliant draughtsman. John attended the Slade School of Fine Art (1894-98), winning a scholarship in 1896. He became professor of painting at Liverpool University (1901-04). John visited Paris regularly and continued to travel in Europe, spending some of the time in the company of gypsies, whose nomadic life greatly appealed to him. He exhibited with the NEAC in 1899 and a joint exhibition was held with his sister, Gwen John, at the Carfax Gallery, London (1903). John is best known for his commissioned portraits as well as drawings and paintings of his second wife, Dorelia, and his many children.
Provenance
Anonymous sale; Bonhams, London, 2 May 2019, Lot 16, where purchased.