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