1. Durant Basi Sihlali (1935-2004) was a South African artist and teacher who became head of fine art at the Federated Union of Black Artists from 1983-88. His 1960-80s street scenes are important representations of black South African urban life. This 21in x 2ft 5in (54 x 74cm) signed watercolour sold at Ewbank’s of Surrey on July 25.
2. Offered at Gardiner Houlgate of Corsham on July 25, this 22in x 3ft (56 x 91cm) oil on canvas by Henry Harris (1852- 1926) was estimated at £300-500. The Bristol painter specialised in views of the countryside and this example depicted Tintern Abbey on the River Wye. The abbey fell into ruins after the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century.
3. Workmen, a small painting by Harold Dearden (1888-1962), sold at Gloucestershire saleroom Dominic Winter on July 25. The artist studied at Rochdale School of Art between 1905-10, then at the Royal College of Art, before later becoming head of Swindon Art School for 30 years from 1920. His works are often valued for the social history contained in the subjects. The 8 x 8¾in (20 x 22.5cm) oil on canvas laid on board more than doubled its £200-300 estimate.
Prices do not include buyer’s premium
