Patrick Collins, H.R.H.A.

Private Collection, Ireland

The board is sound. There are some specks of surface dirt in the lower third of the work and a small area of paint separation to the blue pigment lower centre. Otherwise the work is in excellent original condition with areas of strong impasto. Ultraviolet light reveals no apparent signs of retouching. Held under glass in a painted wood frame; unexamined out of frame. Please telephone the department on 020 7293 5575 if you have any questions regarding the present work.
"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."

Collins had an intense fascination and connection with the untamed Irish landscape and as a result, depicts the landscape in an almost mystical manner blending abstract and figurative elements to create his own individual style. The paintings portray a romantic and atmospheric view of Ireland and much of his work is drawn together through the unique combination of muted palette, mist, and the use of distant illuminating light.

Born in Dromore West, Co. Sligo, Collins studied briefly at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin but only became a full-time painter in 1961 after a career in insurance that lasted for twenty years.  As well as childhood experiences of the rugged landscape in the West of Ireland, Collins was also influenced by the work of Paul Henry. In 1971, he moved to Paris where his signature images of Irish landscapes flourished and his palette lightened. He returned permanently to live in Ireland in 1977 until his death in 1984.