Because of the topographical nature of his subjects it was fitting that one of his oils, Gorleston Beach – low tide shown right, was offered by Norfolk auctioneers Keys (10% buyer’s premium) at their Aylsham salerooms on August 16.
The 17 by 21in (43 x 53cm) oil was sourced locally and bore labels for the Norwich gallery Mandells. According to specialist-in-charge Kevin Lines the picture was in good condition and “ready to hang”. Mr Lines said: “We always encounter lots of interest in Mellon’s work because of the local connection but in recent years we have taken increasing inquiries from the London trade so it would seem interest in Mellon is on the up.”
Indeed the record for a Mellon oil stands with Christie’s King Street who took £25,000 for the 20in by 2ft (51 x 61cm) August Bank Holiday, Gorleston on Sea on June 8 2001. Gorleston Beach – low tide was not destined to top this record but it did attract a number of phone bidders, one of whom, a London dealer, took it at an above-estimate £8000.
Mellon’s appeal grows wider
It wasn’t until Campbell Archibald Mellon (1876-1955) retired from business at the end of the First World War that he devoted himself to painting. He moved to Gorleston-on-Sea in Norfolk and the bulk of his artistic output is focused on the beaches and holidaymakers in the area.
