Bateman, H.M.

360 by 245mm., pen and ink drawing, signed lower right "H.M. Bateman", mounted, framed and glazed

Chris Beetles Limited, "The Illustrators", 28 November - 14 December 1990, no 56

The Illustrators, 28 November-14 December 1990, no.56

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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 Payne was “Mr. Payne” to me when I was a young solicitor in Johnson Stokes & Master almost 30 years ago.  It was one of the largest law offices in Hong Kong, and John was a very senior partner of the firm.

John was widely recognised as one of Asia’s, if not the world’s top legal brains.  He had high standards and little patience for fools.  Therefore he was as much feared as he was respected in the office by someone like myself who had only just embarked on my legal career.  Socially, John was a permanent fixture of the prestigious Hong Kong Club, which was like his second home.  He could always be spotted there having lunch or drinks with his best friends.  In their presence, John would deliver his uncompromising views on people and the world with his trademark mixture of humour and sarcasm.

With the passing away of John last year, Hong Kong has sadly lost one of its top lawyers and a larger-than-life personality.  Sotheby’s, and I in particular, are very pleased and honoured to be entrusted with the sale of his collection of book illustrations (to be offered over a number of sales). They show the collector’s eye and also the humour of my old friend and mentor, Mr. Payne.

Kevin Ching
Chief Executive Officer
Sotheby’s Asia