Lot 383 , Beatrice Johnson (1906-2000), oil on canvas, three-quarter length portrait of a Coldstream Guards officer

Beatrice Johnson (1906-2000)
oil on canvas
Three-quarter length portrait of Second Lieutenant Ronald Douglas Elmer Speed (15th January 1919 - 1st June 1940), seated, wearing the uniform of the Coldstream Guards
signed
39.5in x 29.5in
Estimate £300-500

Note: This portrait is accompanied by a letter from the sitter to his mother dated December 7th [1939] telling her of his imminent departure for France, where he was to die on the beaches of Dunkirk six months later.

Oil on original canvas in honest slightly neglected condition, paint looks very dirty possibly nicotine stained, would certainly benefit from a good clean, signed lower right, housed in the original gilt gesso frame which has some cracking but is intact, old letter verso relating to the work.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £420