Derek Carruthers (1935–2021) An Original Work in Watercolour & Fine Ink (1997)

A rare opportunity to acquire an original work by one of the 20th century’s most intellectually rigorous British artists. Sourced directly from the Artist’s Estate, this piece is in pristine, "gallery-fresh" condition.

This 1997 work is a tour de force of draughtsmanship and tonal control. Carruthers utilises a sophisticated combination of fine architectural ink and layered watercolour washes to create a scene of haunting, theatrical depth.

The painting depicts a rhythmic arrangement of articulated mannequins, figures that Carruthers famously referred to as his "anonymous surrogates." The ink work is incredibly precise, detailing the mechanical joints and wooden grains of the figures, giving them a physical "presence" that belies their inanimate nature. These figures are set against a luminous, ethereal background of blue and grey washes, suggesting they are suspended in a subterranean or dreamlike theatre. The mastery of the media is evident in how the watercolour creates a sense of infinite space, while the sharp ink lines anchor the figures in a rigid, structural reality.

Derek Carruthers was a titan of the Modern British Art movement, bridging the gap between mid-century radicalism and late 20th-century figurative exploration.

Studying at King’s College, Durham, under the legendary Victor Pasmore and Richard Hamilton, Carruthers was a central figure in the 'Basic Research' movement. His early career was defined by pioneering constructivist mobiles and reliefs, exhibiting alongside icons like Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson.

 As the long-standing Head of Fine Art at Durham University, Carruthers used these mannequins as pedagogical tools to teach students about spatial relationships and form. In his later years, they became his primary subject, used to explore the "Human Comedy"—the way humans interact, conform, and exist within social structures.

His importance is cemented by his presence in major public institutions, including:

• • The Arts Council Collection (Southbank Centre)

  • Leeds Art Gallery

  • The Northern Arts Association

  • Leicester & Bradford Public Galleries

Condition Report

"To the discerning collector, this work represents a blue-chip acquisition within the Modern British sector. Carruthers is currently undergoing a significant critical re-evaluation; following his passing in 2021 and recent retrospectives at the Djanogly Gallery, the market for his 'Mannequin' series has seen a marked upward trajectory.

Because this piece comes directly from the artist’s estate and has never been framed or exposed to light, it remains in 'as new' condition. Original watercolours of this caliber, which so clearly bridge his constructivist background with his later figurative mastery, are increasingly difficult to source. As more of his estate enters public collections, the availability of these high-quality original works on the private market will diminish, making this a superb candidate for long-term capital appreciation."

Measurement

Height:       82 cm   /     32.28 inches

Width:        35 cm   /     13.77 inches