John Spencer Churchill

The sheet is taped onto a supporting board with two tabs at the left vertical edge. The edges of the sheet are uneven, consistent with the artist's working materials. There is evidence of some light dirt on the surface of the sheet and the pigments of the watercolour and the ink appear to have faded. Subject to the above the work is in good overall condition. The drawing is presented in a book mount and small gilt frame. Please contact the department on +44 (0) 207 293 6424 if you have any questions regarding the present lot.
"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."

John Spencer Churchill was Churchill's brother Jack and Gwendoline's son. He spent quite a bit of time at Chartwell when he was decorating the loggia with frescoes of the triumphant campaigns of John, first Duke of Marlborough. Mary wrote how Johnny 'was the greatest fun ... almost an acrobat, and I was amazed and delighted by his handsprings and somersaults, which he obligingly performed at my request' (Mary Soames, A Daughter's Tale, Doubleday, London, 2011, p.133).