A wonderfully playful original watercolour featuring two striped seahorses surrounded by colourful shells, coral and underwater plants.
Painted in a lively palette of emerald green, yellow, turquoise, pink and blue, the seahorses have an almost theatrical quality, with their exaggerated expressions, curling tails and boldly patterned bodies.
There is a lovely sense of humour to the composition, balanced by the careful arrangement of marine plants and shells. The stylised forms and confident use of colour suggest an artist with a particular interest in decorative design.
An intriguing history
The reverse retains an old handwritten label bearing the name Miss R. G. Norman and an address at Endebess, Kenya. The title appears to read Dandy and Joan, alongside the medium, a section designation and the words Not for Sale.
The precise history of these watercolours remains unknown. They may have originated as decorative designs, although their intended purpose has not been established.
One of three original marine watercolours from the same collection, each with its own wonderfully eccentric subject and distinctive character.
The two companion watercolours, The Yellow Peril and The Octopus, are also available to purchase individually.
Believed to date from the first half of the 20th century, circa 1930–1950.
No visible signature established. Titled on an old handwritten label verso, apparently 'Dandy and Joan'. Undated.
Watercolour on paper.
Max Width - 34cm/ 13.5"
Max Height - 27cm / 10.5"
Age-related wear and discolouration consistent with age. Please refer to photographs.
Framed and glazed in a narrow, pale painted wooden frame.
