Attrib. Cyril Mann (1911-1980) - Framed Oil Bomb Damaged Buildings, Shoreditch

Description

A striking c.1950 urban scene by British painter Cyril Mann (1911–1980). Known for his gritty, atmospheric depictions of London life, this painting depicts bomb-damaged buildings in Shoreditch in the aftermath of the Blitz. Captured in a Post-Impressionist style with expressive, loaded brushwork. The loosely rendered figures and confident architectural forms show Mann's confidence as a painter. Presented in a silver coloured frame. Unsigned. Provenance: Studio Sale. On canvas.

Condition

A light, even patina of age is present across the surface of the artwork. The frame has minor surface wear. Overall, the artwork presents in very good condition.

Size

52 x 63.5cm (20.5" x 25.0")
Framed Size: 63.5 x 74cm (25.0" x 29.1")

Artist Biography

Born in London and raised in Nottingham from 1914, Mann showed exceptional early promise. At just 12 years old, he became the youngest recipient of a scholarship to the Nottingham School of Art. After leaving school in 1925 and working briefly as a clerk, he embarked on a journey to Canada in 1927 as a missionary, taking on varied work while rediscovering his passion for painting. Travels through America between 1933 and 1934 eventually brought him back to London, where in 1935 he was sponsored to study at the Royal Academy Schools, later spending time in Paris to further his artistic development. His career was interrupted by service in World War II, after which he turned to teaching at the Central School of Arts and Crafts from 1947 to 1949, followed by positions at Kingsway Day College and Sir John Cass College. As a painter working in an Expressionist and Impressionist style, and a sculptor, Mann exhibited widely in group shows at venues including Wildenstein, Park Row Gallery, the East End Academy, and the Archer Gallery.