Sir Cedric Morris

Private Collection, UK

The canvas has been relined. There is craquelure in areas of thicker paint in the corners and along the left and right edges of the paint surface. Examination under ultra-violet light reveals a few tiny scattered spots of fluorescence in the upper quadrants which appear to be retouching. Held in a gilded composition frame. Please telephone the department on 020 7293 5381 if you have any questions regarding the present work.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The bold forms and highly keyed colours of the present work are typical of Morris's still life painting in the years after the Second World War. A noted and talented plantsman, Morris frequently depicted flowers and produce from his own gardens and as with his earlier paintings (see lot 40), the apparently random and informal arrangements capture the very essence of the wide range of flowers depicted. In the present work, the vase is crowded with hues of strong reds, oranges and pinks which provide a perfect foil to the pure white of the lilies in the centre.