Montague Dawson RMSA, FRSA (1890-1973)

Code: H580

Dimensions:

Title: A British Destroyer passing the Needles, Isle of Wight

Biography: Montague Dawson never attended art school even though he had a natural flair for painting. Just before the First World War, he joined a commercial art studio in London, where he worked on posters and illustration. With the advent of war Dawson joined the Royal Navy as a naval officer. It was while serving in the RN he met Napier Hemy; Hemy had a profound influence on young Montague’s work.

Shortly after WW1, Dawson’s art focused mainly on deep water sailing ships, usually in a stiff breeze and high seas. In the 1920s Dawson threw his lot in with the Frost and Reed gallery; they handled his output of paintings and prints.

As well as other venues, Dawson exhibited at the RA between 1917 and 1936. He was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Montague Dawson, ‘King of the Clipper Ships’ is one of the most highly respected painters of marine art; his works have a World-wide following and can command many tens of thousands of pounds.

Unsigned. This painting by Montague Dawson was painted during a stint at the ’Sphere’ where he painted illustrations, mostly in monochrome, of events in the war. This one from December 7th, 1940. See clipping verso.

Description: Oil on board.

Condition: Very good condition.

Dimensions: 24.5 x 37.7cm

Provenance: N. R. Omell, London. Sotheby's, London, the Marine Sale, 18 June 2003, lot 131

Literature: The Sphere, 7 December 1940

Circa: 1940