£2,000
Artist Resale Rights Apply
HUMPHREY SPENDER (BRITISH 1910-2005)
PHOENIX
Tapestry, 165 x 121cm, (65 x 47.5”)
‘Phoenix by Humphrey Spender - Edinburgh Tapestry Co’ inscribed to wooden frame verso
Humphrey Spender was a British artist, designer and photographer. ‘Phoenix’ was designed for Dovecot Studios, after their incorporation as Edinburgh Tapestry Co in 1946. At this time, resident Dovecot weavers were producing tapestries designed by English designers who were well established in the 1930s, which is referenced in Elizabeth Cumming’s book, 'The Art of Modern Tapestry Dovecot Studios Since 1912'. Cummings was commissioned to write this book for the centenary exhibition held to celebrate the birth of Dovecot in 1912. This rare and prestigious tapestry was formerly owned by Sir Harry Jefferson Barnes, who acquired Edinburgh Tapestry Co in 1954, when Sax Shaw was appointed artistic director.
Lower left of tapestry has a white mark. Note: this item is woven, therefore there are some imperfections in the weave throughout the tapestry, refer to images.
Additional images show the tapestry in situ, true colours shown in natural light
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Room and Absentee Bids:
28.80% inc VAT*
Online and Autobids:
31.8% inc VAT*
