Gerard Dillon, R.H.A., R.U.A.

Associated American Artists, New York

The board is sound and is very slightly bowed. The varnish has discoloured and there are old scuff marks and frame abrasions along the edges, notably along the upper edge, along the left of the bottom edge where there are some old spots of paint loss, visible in the catalogue illustration, and a scratch by the upper right edge, also visible in the illustration. There is an old indentation to the board to the bottom of the right edge, to the right of the boy's hand, visible in the illustration, which is an integral part of the board. There are also some very feint lines of craquelure to the varnish in the sky and the some scattered spots of staining, otherwise in good original condition. Under ultraviolet light there is a thick varnish and appear to be no signs of retouching. Held in a painted plaster 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."

Dillon first visited Connemara in 1939 on a cycling holiday with his friend Ernie Atkin. He was immediately impressed by the rugged elements of the West of Ireland landscape and in the present work, the dramatic hills and loughs in contrast to the white washed cottages provide a dynamic backdrop. The artist was also intrigued by the local people of Connemara; 'these people are a race apart, very friendly and polite, they never intrude. They carry this politeness to a degree unbelievable to me...' (Dillon, 'Connemara is Ireland to me', quoted in J.White, Gerard Dillon, Dublin 1994, p.72). In the present work, the woman at the centre is wearing the characteristic West of Ireland shawl which provides a vibrant contrast to her brightly coloured skirt whilst the young boys wear the traditional collarless shirt and waistcoat.