Derek Carruthers (1935–2021) – (Procession of Mannequin Figures) – Original Watercolour, Signed and Dated January 1997
£1,250.00
Description
This original watercolour, signed and dated January 1997, is by the British artist Derek Carruthers (1935–2021). The composition depicts a large group of articulated artists’ mannequins moving across a gridded architectural surface, their elongated shadows creating a strong sense of rhythm, depth and directional movement.
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Derek Carruthers (1935–2021) – (Procession of Mannequin Figures) – Original Watercolour, Signed and Dated January 1997
A powerful and rhythmic original watercolour by the noted British Modernist Derek Carruthers. Signed and dated January 1997, this work captures a vast procession of articulated artist mannequins navigating a gridded, architectural environment.
The work is characterized by:
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Rhythmic Draughtsmanship: The composition utilizes an elevated viewpoint and elongated cast shadows to create a strong sense of directional movement and spatial depth.
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The "Gridded" Stage: The mannequins move across a tiled ground defined by planar walls, serving as a metaphor for the physical and social systems that govern human transition and conformity.
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Symbolic Neutrality: Drawing from his experience as Head of Art at Durham University, Carruthers uses the mannequin as a universal surrogate, stripping away individual identity to focus on the "collective flow" of humanity.
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Premium Presentation: Professionally finished in a slim black gallery frame with non-reflective art glass. This specialist glass is vital for this work, as it preserves the clarity of the fine linework and the delicate tonal shifts in the shadows by eliminating room reflections.
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Provenance: Purchased directly from the artist’s estate, ensuring ironclad authenticity.
Dealer’s Note
This work is an excellent example of Carruthers’ mid-career investigations into collective movement and spatial order. The use of repeated mannequin figures and their cast shadows creates a compelling visual rhythm, while the architectural setting reinforces the artist’s enduring interest in systems and control. Works from this 1990s period are particularly valued for their clarity of intent and direct connection to Carruthers’ role as both artist and educator.
Condition Report
Great condition - Purchased from the artist’s estate.
Measurement
Height: 82 cm / 32.28 inches (with mount)
Width: 61 cm / 24.01 inches (with mount)
Height: 71 cm / 27.95 inches (without mount)
Width: 50 cm / 19.86 inches (without mount)
Framed
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
