Entered in untouched condition from a deceased estate in Shropshire, this 3ft 3in by 2ft 8in (99 x 81cm) canvas was an early work signed and dated 1913 that was unusual for its impressive size and for the fact that it showed children in a garden, rather than on a beach. This was clearly viewed by the trade as a highly commercial combination, judging by the five telephone bidders. Mason’s representative in the room had to see off with his £41,000 bid. The final underbidding came from a Scottish dealer.
A Sharp reminder of quality sparks £41,000 bids battle
Quality paintings have been extremely thin on the ground in the provinces in the last few weeks, but this Dorothea Sharp (1874-1955) oil did at least create a stir at the Leominster rooms of Brightwells (15% buyer’s premium) on August 29 when it climbed to £41,000 against an estimate of £3000-5000.
