LS Lowry drawing of Maryport to be auctioned in November

Earlier this week, a historic painting of Maryport created by the legendary artist brought in over £800,000 at an auction in London.

And now, a signed pencil drawing by Lowry titled Maryport – The Estuary is to be sold by Mitchells Antiques & Fine Arts next month.

Lowry and Bennett looking at their painting together (Image: Newsquest) They said: “The most valuable lot in the sale is expected to be a pencil drawing by L S Lowry (1887-1976) titled ‘Maryport – The Estuary’ with an estimate of £25,000-£35,000.

“Signed and dated 1960 and measuring 36cm x 25cm, the drawing was previously sold at Sotheby’s in 1998, then Richard Green Bond Street in London and Castlegate House Gallery in Cockermouth.”

Last month, Mitchells sold a joint artwork by Lowry and his lifelong friend Revd Geoffrey Bennett (1902–1991) depicting Rockcliffe Church near Carlisle where Bennett was minister.  The painting features several characteristic ‘matchstick’ figures in the foreground by Lowry, including children playing with a ball and a dog. 

The painting of Rockcliffe Church (Image: Supplied) Mitchells had given the artwork a conservative estimate of £2,000-£5,000, knowing it had the potential to make more given its provenance which included a photograph of Lowry and Bennett looking at the painting together which added to its appeal and potential value.

Sure enough, the painting quickly exceeded its estimate as a tense battle played out between two people bidding in the saleroom with bids jumping up in large increments of £500 until the painting was finally sold for £23,500 to a member of Geoffrey Bennett’s extended family. 

James Moore, head of Antiques & Fine Art at Mitchells, talked with the News & Star about the upcoming sale of Lowry’s pencil drawing.

He said: “It’s a pencil sketch, but it’s a fantastic example of Lowry’s work. It’s a very recognisable local scene as well. It’s just a lovely drawing.”

James Moore (Image: Supplied) The sale will take place between November 27 and 29.