Peter Howson

The canvas is original. There is an indentation running vertically down the right hand side of the canvas, approx. ½ inch from the extreme edge. There is a similar indentation running horizontally along the extreme lower edge. There is minor surface dirt to the work. Otherwise in good condition. Ultraviolet light reveals no sign of retouching. Held in a simple wooden frame in fair condition.
"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."

During his period of study at Glasgow School of Art he made friends with Donald Mcleod, a similarly impulsive if not slightly reckless character who shared Peter's tastes for drinking and playing pool. As Robert Heller describes, "one day, when the reluctant pair actually did attend college, only to find no model, they decided, on shared impulse, to join the army. After passing a form of intelligence test, Howson was accepted for the Royal Highland Fusiliers, and within a month was at Glencorse Barracks." (Robert Heller, Peter Howson, 2003, p. 16). Even as Howson boarded the bus returning to Glasgow, he realised the gravity of his mistake and admitted some years later that 'joining the army was basically sheer hell - I hated it.' In the same way that his early childhood had been blighted by school bullies, his time in the army provided an even more brutal set of experiences. However, Heller further points out that if nothing else "military life left Howson with one of his great and lasting themes: bullies and thugs." The Wounded Fusilier: The Lookout is a self-portrait which contains a sense of vulnerability and sensitivity reflecting Howson's attitude towards his time in the Army.