Walter Ernest Spradbery (1889-1969) - Lithograph Epping Forest By Moonlight

Description

A fine and dynamic lithograph by the listed British artist Walter Ernest Spradbery (1889-1969), entitled 'Epping Forest By Moonlight - The Last Bus Home'. Spradbery produced this work for an advertising poster for transport links in the area, and the style is characteristic of his other work for the London Underground. Inscribed to the reverse with a short biography. On wove laid to thick card. Signed in the plate.

Condition

In fine condition overall. Some minor discolouration, expected for a picture of this age, and some tiny marks to the edges.

Size

51.2 x 44cm (20.2" x 17.3")
Sheet: 52.8 x 45.4cm (20.8" x 17.9")

Artist Biography

Born in East Dulwich, London, Walter Ernest Spradbery (1889-1969) studied at Walthamstow Art School, then worked as an art teacher. He regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy and also showed at the Alpine Gallery, Chenil Gallery, Dudley Gallery Art Society, Fine Art Society, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, Royal Cambrian Academy, Royal Hibernian Academy, Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and Royal Scottish Academy. He worked as a watercolourist, linocut artist and poster designer, the latter medium being commissioned by London Transport and Southern Region Railways.

A lifelong pacifist, he served in the Royal Army Medical Corps during the World War I and was also an Official War Artist later joining the Society of Industrial Artists and Designers. Walter Spradbery was one of the most energetic and longstanding members of the Essex Art Club over a period of nearly 65 years, and was chairman and eventually president of the Club. Examples of his work are in the collections of the Imperial War Museum and the National Railway Museum. A memorial exhibition was held at William Morris Museum, London in 1970. Epping Forest District Museum has an example of his work.