Ruskin Spear, R.A. (1911-1990)

'The setting for this painting is the Hampshire Hog, King Street, Hammersmith. According to the artist, the landlord, Mr. Hollingberry, used to hang the canary over the bar to test the state of the air' (M. Levy, Ruskin Spear, London, 1985, p. 39).

Another version of the present work was exhibited: London, Royal Academy, 1963; London, Tate Gallery, Jubilee Exhibition of the London Group 1914-1964, 1964. London, Royal Academy, Royal Academy Retrospective Exhibition, 1980.