A wonderfully eccentric original watercolour depicting a large green octopus surrounded by curling tentacles, stylised coral, underwater plants and a tiny red crab.
With its expressive yellow eyes and twisting arms, the octopus has an almost mischievous personality. The soft greens, deep blues, pinks and ochres are beautifully balanced, while the carefully drawn details give the composition a particularly lively, decorative character.
There is a great deal of humour in this painting, from the exaggerated features of the octopus to the tiny creatures hidden amongst the coral. An imaginative and highly individual piece of original artwork.
An intriguing history
The reverse retains an old handwritten label identifying the subject as The Octopus and recording the name Miss R. G. Norman, together with an address at Endebess, Kenya.
Also inscribed are the medium Water Colour, a section designation and the words Not for Sale.
These details suggest the work may once have been submitted to an exhibition or competition, although the event and identity of the artist have not been established.
The three related marine watercolours may originally have been intended as decorative designs, but their precise history remains an intriguing mystery.
One of three original marine watercolours from the same collection, each with its own playful subject and wonderfully imaginative character.
The two companion watercolours, Dandy and Joan and The Yellow Peril, 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 'The Octopus' on a handwritten label verso. 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.
