15th Apr, 2025 10:00
Modern and Contemporary Art
290
▲ Edward Burra (1905-1976)
The procession
with 'E J Burra' estate stamp u.r., pencil and watercolour, with a pencil drawing of dancers verso
65 x 50cm, unframed
Provenance: Sotheby's, London, 'Works from the Estate of Edward Burra, Lady Ritchie of Dundee and Associated Owners', 3 July 2002, lot 256;
the property of a private collector.
Edward Burra was known for his surreal, satirical depictions of modern life. Born in London and raised in Rye, Sussex, he battled chronic rheumatoid arthritis, which shaped both his lifestyle and artistic practice. Despite physical limitations, he developed a distinctive style, favouring large-scale watercolours. His early work focused on urban nightlife, revelling in the grit and glamour of brothels, bars and cabaret scenes.
Burra’s fascination with Hispanic culture led him to Spain in 1933, during the turbulent years of the Second Spanish Republic (1931-1939). The country was undergoing radical political change - secular reforms, social unrest and rising tensions that would eventually lead to civil war. He was captivated by Spain's dramatic cultural traditions, particularly its religious processions, bullfights and theatrical Catholic rituals. Spanish art profoundly influenced him, from the eerie mysticism of El Greco to the stark realism of Goya and Zurbarán. Burra immersed himself in the culture, learning Spanish and surrounding himself with Spanish literature. He also travelled to Mexico, where the vibrant folk traditions and imagery of the Day of the Dead reinforced his fascination with ritual and the macabre.
His undated drawing 'The Procession' showcases his signature compositional technique. The eye is led diagonally from the upper left to the lower right, where figures seem to move beyond the paper’s edge. This sense of momentum is key to his later religious-themed works. Burra’s cartoonist-like approach is evident - while most of the piece remains an outline, he selectively colours a few figures, particularly a striking, red-skinned face, adding both drama and mystery. This technique teases the viewer, leaving them wondering how the final piece might have looked, a hallmark of Burra’s ability to balance intrigue and narrative depth.
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Sold for £2,600
Condition Report
There are several very small, repaired tears to the upper edge. A few light spots of foxing starting to emerge. Very light surface dirt. There is a little pale yellow discolouration in the lower right corner.
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Auction: Modern and Contemporary Art, 15th Apr, 2025
Viewing
London Viewing | Highlights
A selection of lots will be on view Friday 14 March - Monday 7 April (weekdays only) at our London Gallery, 15 Cecil Court, London WC2N 4EZ, as follows:
Monday-Friday, 11am - 6pm
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Stansted Viewing | Auction
Viewing will be held at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE, as follows:
Friday 11 April, 10am - 4pm
Sunday 13 April, 10am - 1pm
Monday 14 April, 10am - 4pm
All lots are, however, extensively illustrated and carry detailed condition reports - see 'Condition report' at the foot of each lot description.
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
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