Mark Gertler (1891-1939)

Gertler produced four still-lifes based on the bust of Clytie, three paintings and the present drawing, plus a ‘head’ study. The oil painting Clytie and the Melon was the first to be painted in 1929 and is the most complete work of the series, portraying the bust of Clytie, a melon and an abundance of fruit in a rich myriad of tones. Previously in the collection of novelist G.U. Ellis, the painting was sold in these Rooms on 11 November 1988, lot 329. The present work was the second to be produced and therefore is not, as might be supposed, a preliminary study for the oil, but a work within its own right. Remarkably similar in composition and fine detail to the oil, the work stands as an example of the mastery of Gertler’s draughtsmanship.

We are very grateful to Sarah MacDougall for her assistance in preparing this catalogue entry.