Torr Antiques & Decorative Arts

Description

This is a limited edition linocut by Robert Tavener RE (1920 - 2004) titled 'The Neptune Fountain, Cheltenham', and dates to 4th Quarter 20th century. It is signed, titled and numbered 18/30 in pencil by the artist in the bottom margin.

The Neptune Fountain, built in 1893, was designed by Joseph Hall and carved by Boulton & Sons. The fountain was probably modelled on the Trevi Fountain in Rome. It is a monumental statuesque piece depicting Greek god Neptune in a shell-chariot, being drawn by four sea-horses and heralded by conch-shell blowing merman. Neptune sits proudly, clothed in a mantle while clasping a Trident as a symbolic representation of his dominion over the seas, while the horses are depicted in motion, and the entire fountain is enclosed by sculpted balusters and vases filled with flowers.
Robert Tavener made a series of lithographs of Cheltenham.

Robert Tavener, illustrator, printmaker and teacher, was born in Hampstead, North London. After several years war service he took a diploma in design at the Hornsey College of Art followed by a teaching diploma at the University of London. Robert Tavener held teaching positions at Medway College of Art in Rochester, Saint Martin's School of Art in London, and from 1953 Eastbourne College of Art and Design, where he rose to be the Head of Printmaking, Illustration and Graphic Design and Vice-Principal. He did much illustration work as well as commissions for organisations such as Shell, the BBC, and London Transport. He was a senior fellow of the Royal Society of Painter/Printmakers. His work is held in over 25 public collections including the V&A, the Government Art Collection and the British Council.

Dimensions: Paper - Width 740 x Height 595 mm
Image - 520 x 430 mm

Condition: The print is in very good condition with strong colours. There are some minor handling marks in the margins and an old horizontal crease that just encroaches into the top of the image.

Postage & Packing: £10 within the UK. The print will be sent rolled in a tube for protection.