As with Karl Hagedorn, mentioned in the main Art Market story this edition, Delaney had started out in textile design, working in a studio in Manchester before turning to paint and producing his trademark Lowry-inspired works rather prolifically.
Most are views evoking memories of his childhood in Manchester in the 1930s, although an auction record recently came for a nostalgic depiction of The Golden Mile with Blackpool Tower in the background that fetched £18,000 at Dreweatts in October.
Offered at Maxwells (20% buyer’s premium) in Stockport, Cheshire, on May 18 was Albert Square, Manchester, a 15¾ x 19in (40 x 48cm) signed oil which came from a local deceased estate. With the well-known landmark, numerous figures in the foreground and a few trams and cars making their way in the background, it was always likely to appeal to buyers active in Delaney’s market.
Estimated at £4000-6000, it sold at £7600 – an above average sum for a picture by Delaney at auction.
