16th Sep, 2026 12:00
London | Ancient & Modern
26
⊕ AUGUSTUS JOHN RA (BRITISH 1878-1961)
MALE NUDE
black chalk on paper
61 x 40.5 cm (83 x 60.5cm framed)
Provenance
Henry and Gwen Mond (Lord and Lady Melchett)
Private Collection
Thence by descent to the present owner
Augustus John's Male Nude is a beautifully precise and academic study from one of London’s most talented draughtsmen of the twentieth century. The standing figure is in classic contrapposto, with one foot raised and resting on the other leg; his twisted torso reveals his slender muscular physique as his arm extends to rest on an imaginary ledge. The sitter gazes down towards the viewer and yet he seems to look out, past us, lost in his own thoughts.
Given this considered, academic approach to his subject matter it is likely that this work was drawn when studying at the Slade, where he trained from 1894-98. John became the star pupil of his drawing teacher Henry Tonks and was widely considered to be the most talented draughtsman of his generation.
After his studies John went on to become a member of the Camden Town Group in 1911 and a member of the London Group from 1940 to 1961.
Sold for £1,300
MALE NUDE
black chalk on paper
61 x 40.5 cm (83 x 60.5cm framed)
Provenance
Henry and Gwen Mond (Lord and Lady Melchett)
Private Collection
Thence by descent to the present owner
Augustus John's Male Nude is a beautifully precise and academic study from one of London’s most talented draughtsmen of the twentieth century. The standing figure is in classic contrapposto, with one foot raised and resting on the other leg; his twisted torso reveals his slender muscular physique as his arm extends to rest on an imaginary ledge. The sitter gazes down towards the viewer and yet he seems to look out, past us, lost in his own thoughts.
Given this considered, academic approach to his subject matter it is likely that this work was drawn when studying at the Slade, where he trained from 1894-98. John became the star pupil of his drawing teacher Henry Tonks and was widely considered to be the most talented draughtsman of his generation.
After his studies John went on to become a member of the Camden Town Group in 1911 and a member of the London Group from 1940 to 1961.
Auction: London | Ancient & Modern, 16th Sep, 2026
London is a city which has had a greater impact on culture around the world than almost any other, and it has never been more important than now to shine a light on its remarkable citizens and history. From Magna Carta to the television London has, again and again, been the source from which progress has radiated. The present sale takes us from a medieval spur found under Cannon Street station, to a medal minted to commemorate the Millennium, from prints and paintings, to clocks and pistols. This sale is a sensational opportunity to acquire a small piece of this incomparable place. Olympia is a proudly London-based auction house and we are thrilled to be offering the inaugural instalment of this sale.
Viewing
PUBLIC EXHIBITION:
Sunday 13th September: 12pm to 4pm
Monday 14th September: 10am to 8.00pm (Drinks from 5pm)
Tuesday 15th September: 10am to 5pm
