Pencil on paper, unsigned. 

9 3/8 x 7 5/8 in. (sight), 22 1/2 x 18 1/2 in. (frame).

Literature: Malcolm Bell, Sir Edward Burne-Jones, A Record and Review, ill. p. 127.

Note: The present work is a drapery study for the seated figures at the center of Sir Edward Coley Burne-Jones monumental The Sleep of Arthur in Avalon (110 by 256 in.; 279 by 650 cm, Museo de Arte de Ponce, Puerto Rico). The artist spent seventeen years working on the complex narrative, even moving his studio to a larger space to accommodate the canvas. Born as a commission from his patron George Howard, 9th Earl of Carlisle, to decorate a wall in his library at Naworth Castle, The Sleep of Arthur in Avalon was left unfinished in Burne-Jones’ studio upon his death. The work was bequeathed to a studio neighbor whose descendants sold it at auction in 1963, where it was purchased by Luis A. Ferré, politician and founder of the Museo de Arte de Ponce.

Sheet sealed in the mat. Pale staining and surface soiling. Otherwise in good condition.Not withstanding this report or any discussion concerning condition of a lot, all lots are offered and sold "as is" in accordance with our conditions of sale.