Dreweatts auctioneers is set to showcase fourteen never-before-seen works by the esteemed Anglo-Spanish artist George Owen Wynne Apperley (1884-1960) in an upcoming auction this February. Apperley, renowned as one of the late Romantic era’s greatest artists, found his artistic inspiration during a transformative trip to Spain in 1914. The auction presents a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to acquire pieces that encapsulate the rich tapestry of Apperley’s life and his deep connection to Spain.
Apperley’s Spanish Journey
Captivated by the allure of Spain, Apperley chose to make it his home, leaving behind his British family. Settling in the Albaicín district of Granada, he immersed himself in the vibrant artistic community, creating a studio that became a hub for gypsy singers, dancers, and other locals. His shift from classical subjects to portraiture reflected the Mediterranean light of southern Europe, earning him acclaim and recognition across London, Europe, and even at international exhibitions.
Exhibition Highlights
The auction features a diverse range of Apperley’s works, each capturing a unique facet of his artistic prowess and his love for Spain. Notable pieces include:
- “Moreno De Granada” – A striking oil on canvas portraying flamboyant Spanish characters, estimated at £1,000-£1,500 (lot 215).
- “Magda” – A vibrant oil painting featuring a woman in traditional Spanish attire, dated 1942, estimated at £700-£1,000 (lot 214).
- “Mirando Hacia Viznar” – A pair of watercolor landscapes depicting the hills surrounding Viznar, with an estimate of £700-£1,000 (lot 223).
- “Arco Iris Sobre la Alhambra” – A captivating scene of a rainbow over the Alhambra palace in Granada, dated 1953, estimated at £700-£1,000 (lot 223).
- “Bodegon” – A colorful still life capturing the essence of a pantry, dated 1958, with an estimate of £800-£1,200 (lot 224).
- “El Baño de las Ninfas” – A whimsical portrayal of figures bathing beneath a waterfall among trees, dated 1946, estimated at £3,000-£5,000 (lot 218).
Legacy and Commemoration
Despite leaving Spain in 1932 due to political turmoil, Apperley’s legacy lives on. He continued to paint scenes from Granada, and his works are celebrated globally, with a statue erected in his honor in Granada’s Placeta de la Calle Gloria in 2011. His art is prominently featured in museums, including the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and the Museo de Málaga in Spain.
As these never-before-seen works from George Owen Wynne Apperley head to auction, they offer a glimpse into the artist’s profound connection to Spain and the diverse subjects that fueled his creativity. Art enthusiasts and collectors alike have a rare opportunity to own a piece of Apperley’s legacy and the enchanting world he brought to life on canvas. Don’t miss the chance to bid on these exquisite works at Dreweatts on February 21, 2024.
