Up for sale is an exquisite watercolor and gouache painting by the talented British artist Jim Russell. Depicting an urban London street scene of old brick homes an older couple is seen low right just about to exit the frame. This atmospheric depiction gives a slightly ominous feeling with the darker tones in the sky and barbed wire which runs around the top of the green fence. Russell was known for his illustration work which I find to translate quite humorously into the shown couple. The wife is seen with her mouth wide open talking while her husband appears rather annoying looking towards the earth. Russell’s originals rarely surface for sale especially of such strong composition outside his commercially used illustrations. This is a fine painting in exceptional condition free from any damage. What helps separate this work is its wonderful provenance which the previous original owner recorded verso, written in ink.

Verso reads - “Worth $500.00 - Purchased in London from the artist Jim Russell. I saw his work in the prestigious Royal Academy show in 1982, May 15-30. The show is open to all Britishers. His painting continued to catch my attention in spite of 500 in the room. I found his address in the catalogue and phoned him, 48 Clapham Common, West Side SW4. He picked me up at the dorm in Kensington took me to his house across the river. His wife fixed a sandwich for me, I selected this one - all were excellent. Jim delivered me back to the dorm with the picture - then took me to Westminster Bridge to meet my party, nice guy.”

This is an outstanding example by Jim Russell with excellent provenance! The images provided accurately represent the quality, condition and aesthetic beauty of this British painting but if you have any questions please feel free to ask prior to purchasing!