* JOHN BELLANY CBE RA HRSA (SCOTTISH 1942 - 2013),
STILL LIFE WITH MODEL BOAT
oil on canvas, signed
overall size 91cm x 121cm
Unframed.
Note: After Bellany's 1988 life-saving liver transplant, his room at Addenbrooke's Hospital became full of flowers and plants sent by friends and loved ones. Bellany had escaped death and these flowers symbolized and celebrated "life". Bellany convalesced at Little Eversden, Cambridgeshire where he began a series of still life paintings, a subject which he'd never focused on before. The exceptional "Still Life with Model Boat" features the paraphernalia which occupied his studio - the model boat, vases, jugs and prominent in the background is one of his own paintings (Iona). Although Bellany often included his own pictures in the background, they are rarely so prominent or so faithfully detailed. Not one, but two large vases of flowers and stripes, which frequently feature in his paintings, and balloons, which are much rarer. Bellany must have been in a hugely positive state of mind when he painted this picture. "Still Life with Model Boat" is a veritable celebration of vibrant colour and indeed, of life itself. In our opinion, this is as good an example of a Bellany still life as we've seen.

Condition Report

Condition is good overall, with no visible signs of restoration, damage, or known issues. Provenance is from a private Scottish collection.