24th Jan, 2021 13:00
The Scottish Contemporary Art Auction
TO THE LIGHTHOUSE, AN OIL BY JOHN BELLANY
* JOHN BELLANY CBE RA HRSA (SCOTTISH 1942 - 2013),
TO THE LIGHTHOUSE
oil on canvas, signed, titled verso
60cm x 50cm
Framed and under glass
Note: Port Seton had a population of only a few thousand, but had more than a dozen churches, and the Bellany family attended church two or three times on Sundays. His childhood and early life were dominated by Calvinism and the terrors and fruits of the sea. That fierce Christianity of his youth condemned alcohol as well as sexual activity outside marriage, and he grew up amid a fear and anxiety of both the pleasures of the body and the threat of hellfire and damnation. He once wrote that John Knox dominated the thoughts of his formative years. ''From education to physical and emotional outlets - 'Sin Is Always In The Air' with Knox looking over your shoulder, a heightened awareness of human vulnerability and mortality,'' he wrote. Much of Bellany's work has obvious sexual symbolism and lighthouses often appear in his paintings. To fishermen and seafarers a lighthouse usually warns of danger but can also be a familiar landmark to help navigate the journey home.
A condition report is offered as an indication of any issues visible to the naked eye. As none of our staff is a professional conservator or restorer, buyers must satisfy themselves in respect of condition and McTear’s can provide contact details of local professionals who can provide fully comprehensive expert reports, usually for a modest charge. The condition report does not form part of any contract between McTear's and the buyer, and all lots are offered "as is" in accordance with our Terms of Business available on our website.
Sold for £3,200
Estimated at £2,000 - £4,000
Condition Report
Condition is very good overall, with no visible signs of restoration, damage, or known issues.
Request a free auction estimate
Complete the form below and one of our specialists will get back to you.
