Laurence Stephen Lowry, R.A. (1887-1976)

The gateway represents an important aspect of Lowry's urban landscape and this particular image was a specific location: the Improved Industrial Dwellings, 'built in 1870 to provide reasonable housing for some of those Salfordians who were living in appalling conditions'. In comparison with Lowry's earlier sketch of 1931, The Gateway, there is a notable development from 'detailed industrial scenes to the single uncomplicated image' (see J. Sandling and M. Leber, Lowry's City, loc. cit.). The painting combines the artist's interest in this particular characteristic of the urban landscape with a simplified approach to style.