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LOT 046

CGP CSGA P11
1921 - 1998
Canadian

River Cover
oil on canvas
signed and dated 1987 and on verso titled on the gallery labels
65 x 77 in, 165.1 x 195.6 cm

Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000 CAD

Sold for: $20,000

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Waddington & Gorce Inc., Montreal
Waddington & Shiell Galleries, Toronto
Private Collection, Montreal


Born in Watford, United Kingdom, Ray Mead studied at the Slade School of Fine Art, in London, where he graduated in 1939. After his service as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force in World War II, he settled in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1946. At that time, he met and befriended the artist Hortense Gordon. Under her mentorship, his career blossomed. Starting in 1947, he participated in annual exhibitions at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, and he later joined the pivotal group Painters Eleven, formed in 1953 in Toronto.

River Cover, a large 1987 oil on canvas, is a magnificent piece from Mead’s later period. This work showcases an intricate composition of shapes and lines suspended over a pale blue background, displaying the full range of Mead’s brushwork. Upon closer examination, the background reveals itself as multiple layers with subtle tonal variations, creating an effect of depth and texture on the surface. Playful and dynamic, this work offers a variety of focal points, with its ochre, white, black, green and cobalt calligraphic scribbles, and navy lines, circles and X’s. Mead was included in several exhibitions at the National Gallery of Canada, and his works are part of important collections such as the Art Gallery of Ontario.


Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.