JOHN PIPER, C.H. (BRITISH, 1903-1992)
Newbold Pacey, Warwickshire
signed 'John Piper' (lower right); titled and dated 'Newbold Pacey Warwickshire 18(...)79' (lower left); titled again 'Newbold Pacey/Warwickshire' (verso)
watercolour heightened with bodycolour with felt-tipped pen
40 x 58 cm. (15 3/4 x 22 3/4 in.)

Provenance
With Malborough Fine Art, London, 1979
Sale; Woolley & Wallis, Salisbury, Modern British & 20th Century Art Including the Estate of Dame Elisabeth Frink & Lin Jammet, 26 August 2020, lot 267, where purchased by the present owner

We would like to thank Hugh Fowler-Wright for his assistance cataloguing the present lot.

John Piper, like many artists working during and after the war in Britain, developed a uniquely defined artistic style. His focus on churches and monuments within the British landscape is vividly demonstrated in both of the present works. While his watercolour of Newbold Pacey in Warwickshire (1979) stands in stark stylistic contrast to the more abstractly imagined Obelisks, both pieces pay homage to the concept of meaningful sites. Each work documents the significance of a specific place, positioning it as a dominant narrative within the art.

John Piper is one of the most significant British artists, with his works featured in numerous notable exhibitions. As a member of The London Group from 1933 and the Seven and Five Society from 1934 to 1935, Piper exhibited alongside key figures such as Henry Moore, Ivon Hitchens, Ben Nicholson, and Christopher Wood. His early works reflect a central focus on abstraction, showcasing his artistic explorations during that period. However, his contributions to the Architectural Review and various works demonstrate his deep concern for preserving architecture and nurturing heritage. Piper bridges the gap between realism and abstraction by representing recognizable buildings through abstract elements.

Piper’s work is included in many prominent collections. Notable pieces like "View of Coventry Cathedral" and "Foliate Head" are part of the Tate Gallery’s collection, and many other institutions hold significant examples of his art. His multifaceted career includes explorations in prints, costumes, set designs, stained glass windows, and more, showcasing the breadth and depth of his artistic contributions.