Signed and dated Sept ‘33, Drought, depicts a scene during the severe drought experienced by much of southern Britain that year. Measuring 12 x 18in (30 x 46cm), it formed part of the first exhibition the artist held at Zwemmer Gallery in November-December 1933.
Aerodrome, larger at 18 x 22in (45 x 55cm), depicts stationary British aircraft in a rural airfield perhaps RAF Debden or Sawbridgeworth, close to the artist’s home in Shalford, Essex. It was last sold in 2006 as part of the collection of Peter Nahum at Christie’s South Kensington when it took £48,000. It was probably painted c.1941.
Ravilious, appointed a war artist in December 1939, died on active service the following year while flying off Iceland.
The paintings carry estimates of £50,000-70,000 and £80,000-120,000 respectively.
