BRITISH ART COLLECTION.

Auckland Star, Volume LI, Issue 208, 31 August 1920, Page 6

BRITISH ART COLLECTION.

(Published by Arrangement.)

■■—■ ■ ■ - TO BE SOLD IN AUCKLAND, ON VIEW IN KITOHEXER STREET, A collection, of paintings from the easels of the most distinguished British artists is at present on view at the ; Society of Arts hall in Kitchener {Street. It represent one of the rare opportunities afforded art-lovers in this part of the world, not only of seeing tne best that British art can offes', but of actually obtaining for private delectation and inspiration in Auckland studios and private homes pictures that have graced the wails of the Royal Academy and, other famous art galleries. For, following on an exhibitson of three days, tha paintings will be offered, on Thursday; evening, at auction. To anj'one with, the slightest knowledge of art the paintings carry their own credentials. Even the most casual glance at the exhibition impresses one with the exceptional quality and beauty of the work, and the magic letters R.A., R. 1., and R.B.A. after tho artists' signatures are scarcely; needed to confirm the feeling that here is real art. The collection is widely varied in svJbjeet, style, and treatment,"ranging from a i.erkomer head and miniature studies, sketches and portraits, to large landscape and still-life canvases. It can well be imagined that the smaller studies of the collection will find a, ready transfer from the care of Air. Alfred Sinclair, R.B.A. (the present custodian of the treasures and a sound guide as to the distinguishing characteristics ot the various artists) to homes in Auckland. But there tye a few larger works that might occupy the attention of the mentors of the "Auckland Art Gallery. Included in the exhibition is a. real Val Princep figure subject, which is certainly a delightful example of this artist's glorious work, and a beautiful example of Thomas Fald's. One of the most impressive paintings is a large still-lite animal study, -The Sportsman's Bag," by VV. Duffield, that immediately conjures up visions of things that Sir Edward Landseer has done by its strikingly boW breadth of treatment cosnbined with its wonderful detail and finish— an inspiration to novices of what can be done with mere pigments. An interior of a cathedral, by P. Carletti, is another work which is sure to catch the eye.