Herbert James Draper

The artist's studio and thence by descent to his daughter Yvonne, thence by descent until 1999;
Julian Hartnoll, London, where purchased by the present owner in 1999

Leicester Galleries, London, Drawings and Studies for Pictures by Herbert Draper, 1913, no.44 as Study for a Bather;
Julian Hartnoll, London, An Exhibition of Drawings by Herbert Draper, 1999, no.38

Simon Toll, Herbert Draper 1863-1920, A Life Study, 2003, cat.no. HJD165.iv., p.196

STRUCTURE The sheet appears sound and the work in excellent overall condition. FRAME Held under glass in a dark wood frame with a cream mount; unexamined out of frame.
"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."

This is a drawing for The Kelpie, Draper's Royal Academy exhibit of 1913 (Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight) and drawn from his favourite model at that time Hilda Edgell. A similar chalk drawing is known (sold from Christopher Wood's collection, Christie's, 28 February 2007, lot 6) as is a study for the kelpie's head (Bonhams, 25 January 2012, lot 91). Kelpies are a type of nymph from Scottish folklore who seduced and drowned travellers as they crossed fast-flowing water.