Leo Rawlings (1918–1984) British Illustrator & listed War artist original signed canvass oil painting of mid Twentieth century Singapore street scene.

Very large oil painting on canvass - measuring 1065mm x 615mm

ARTIST BIOGRAPHY AND SUBJECT

This original masterpiece was painted by Leo Rawlings either during or probably soon after he took part in the Second World War where he was assigned to Singapore. He was kept ‘prisoner of war’ and created artwork to provide a live and vivid record of the era, despite the governing forces not allowing his painting activity. Hence the painting is extremely rare and provides a unique record of this part of the world around that period.

The painting appears to capture the busyness of a Singapore market street scene. Perhaps he attended this location and later painted from memory, or used opportunity to do so after the war ended.

“His Regiment was posted overseas in September 1941, in support of the Singapore garrison. With the fast approaching Japanese forces bearing down on Singapore, Rawlings and his Regiment moved north to join other British forces fighting a rear guard action in trying to stem the Japanese advance. The British Army failed to prevent Japanese forces from capturing Singapore and Rawlings along with thousands of other troops were captured. It was during this time that Rawlings began to draw the scenes of war he witnessed. (The artist had a photographic memory and was able to draw scenes he witnessed at a later time). He was unofficially commissioned after his capture by Lieutenant General Sir Louis Heath to keep a visual record of the prisoners lives as a P.O.W”. [Reference credited to the excellent summary of Adrian Banfield - perform internet search: victorhornetcomics leo rawlings ]

CONDITION

The painting is not in perfect condition but its detail is very well maintained. It has a few minor losses of paint in some locations and one small repair (see pictures), and despite this minor damage it represents a wonderful piece of artwork, with much detail and intrigue to study and enjoy.

I have previously had enquiries to fully restore the piece, and I can image were the purchaser to undertake this, its value would double to well over £1000 - as illustrated by the Artist’s strong online auction history. In it is current status it remains very enjoyable.

EXTRA INFORMATION

Relevant history of the location, perform internet search: awm.gov.au/visit/exhibitions/underattack/underattack

Specific example of Leo’s activity, perform internet search: ww2today.com/9-march-1944-leo-rawlings-war-artist-on-the-death-railway

AUCTION EXAMPLE

Perform internet searches: bonhams.com/auctions/17849/lot/38 “Liberation day” sold for £1,560

artnet.com/artists/leo-rawlings

OTHER

Item is sold as seen, returns permitted within 14 days, purchaser pays for insured return to the value of the purchase.

Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984 Leo Rawlings 1918–1984