Renowned British caricaturist and political satirist Gerald Scarfe’s extraordinary archive will sell at Sotheby’s.
Scarfe began his career in the 1960s, producing cartoons for Private Eye and Punch.
Over the years he’s punctured the egos of generations of politicians with his spiky, intelligent caricatures.
Gerald Scarfe is one of the most influential cartoonists of his era
The auction will feature many of these drawings, as well as work he’s produced for Disney (he created the concept art for 1997 feature Hercules) and his iconic pieces for Pink Floyd’s The Wall.
In total 134 lots are offered, the highlight of which will be his charcoal portrait of Winston Churchill in the House of Commons (1964).
It was among the last portraits of Churchill produced from life and is expected to sell for around £100,000-150,00 ($122,608-183,912).
Dr Philip W Errington, a books and manuscripts specialist at Sotheby’s, comments: “Over the past months, spent working alongside Gerald preparing for this sale, I’ve been struck by his consummate skill and artistry…
“These drawings pack a significant punch. The works selected range from Disney to Pink Floyd, from Thatcher to May, Reagan to Obama, and Yes Minister to The Magic Flute.
“There is truly an eclectic mix, spanning his entire half-century career. The sharp, steel-nib of our greatest living caricaturist demonstrates time and time again his pedigree with Hogarth, Cruikshank and Gillray.”
The sale will take place in London on April 5.
We have this signed illustration of Charlie Chaplin by cartoonist Ralph Steadman for sale.
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