A rare mezzotint print by Christopher Richard Wynne Nevinson, Southwark (Limehouse), has topped Bonhams' December 9 Prints and Multiples auction.
 CRW Nevinson is perhaps the most famous artist of the first world war |
The London sale was dominated by British artists. With Nevinson one of the most famous artists of the first world war, the rich tonal impression of Southwark (Limehouse) was met with strong bids, making £62,500 ($97,852).
The second highest bids of the auction were seen by fellow British artist Claude Flight (1881-1955), with his Speed (Coppel CF7) selling for £45,000 ($70,453).
Flight is known as a pioneer of the linoleum cut technique, seeing the cheap and freely obtainable material as a way for the public to have a greater exposure to art. His work is influenced by cubism and vorticism, with bold forms often depicting movement.
David Hockney's Diploma (MCA Tokyo 28: SAC 12) also saw strong bids, selling at $18,750. One of his most famous works, the 1962 work shows Hockney's cheeky drawings on his diploma from the Royal Academy.
The proposed print edition was 50, and this is the first printed, making it highly desirable to collectors. It is also likely that only around 40 were printed by Hockney, increasing its rarity.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a great range of prints and collectible art for sale.
