Sydney Harbour Bridge: Original Lithograph

Artist: Paul Hogarth
Price: £225.00
Publisher: The Artist & The Curwen Studio, UK
Publication date: c.1995
Format: Original lithograph
Condition: Very near fine to fine condition, unframed
Sheet Size: 54cm x 74cm
Edition: 149/150, signed by the artist

Description

This original lithograph by Paul Hogarth is one from a number that he produced at the Curwen Studio. The print, measuring 54cm x 74cm, is number 149 from the edition of 150 and is signed and numbered by the artist. The overall condition is very near fine to fine. It has never been framed.

Paul Hogarth: A Short Biography

Paul Hogarth (1917–2001) was a distinguished British artist and illustrator, widely recognised for his work in the fields of drawing and illustration, particularly his depiction of architectural and urban landscapes. Hogarth’s work is celebrated for its detailed and evocative portrayals of the human experience within the built environment.

Early Life and Education

Paul Hogarth was born on October 4, 1917, in Kendal, Cumbria, England. He grew up in a working-class family, which later influenced his political views and the themes in his work. Hogarth’s formal art education began at the Manchester School of Art in 1934, where he developed his skills in drawing and painting. He later continued his studies at St. Martin’s School of Art in London.

Career and Artistic Development

During the 1930s, Hogarth became involved with leftist political movements, including the Communist Party of Great Britain. This political engagement deeply influenced his early work, which often depicted the struggles of the working class and the impact of industrialization. In 1936, he joined the Mass Observation project, a social research organization that documented everyday life in Britain. Hogarth’s artistic career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the British Army. After the war, he travelled extensively, and his experiences abroad became a significant influence on his work. Hogarth’s travels took him across Europe, Africa, and Asia, where he documented his surroundings through detailed sketches and watercolours.

Collaboration with Writers

One of Hogarth’s most significant contributions to the arts was his collaboration with renowned writers, including Graham Greene and Lawrence Durrell. His illustrations for Greene’s novels, such as “Our Man in Havana” and “Travels with My Aunt”, brought him widespread acclaim. Hogarth’s ability to capture the essence of a story through his drawings made these collaborations particularly successful.

Later Life and Legacy

In the later years of his career, Paul Hogarth continued to travel and create, with his work becoming more focused on urban landscapes and the interaction between people and their environments. He was elected a Royal Academician in 1974, a testament to his impact on the British art scene. Hogarth’s work is held in numerous public and private collections, and he is remembered as one of the most significant British illustrators of the 20th century. His legacy lives on through his detailed and evocative illustrations that continue to inspire and captivate audiences.

Paul Hogarth passed away on December 27, 2001, leaving behind a rich legacy of artwork that documented the world with a unique blend of realism and social commentary.

Sydney Harbour Bridge: A Short History

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, often referred to as the “Coathanger” due to its distinctive arch-based design. Located in Sydney, New South Wales, it spans the Sydney Harbour, connecting the city’s central business district (CBD) with the North Shore.

Key Facts and Features:

1. Design and Construction:
   • The bridge was designed by British firm Dorman Long and Co Ltd and led by chief engineer John Bradfield.
   • Construction began in 1923 and took eight years to complete, with the official opening on March 19, 1932.
   • The bridge is constructed from steel, with about 53,000 tonnes of it used in its construction. It is held together by over 6 million rivets.
2. Dimensions:
   • The Sydney Harbour Bridge is 1,149 metres (3,770 feet) long.
   • The arch rises 134 metres (440 feet) above the harbour, and it spans 503 metres (1,650 feet).
   • The bridge is 49 metres (161 feet) wide, making it one of the widest long-span bridges in the world.
3. Traffic:
   • The bridge carries a combination of road traffic, rail, and pedestrian pathways.
   • It has eight vehicle lanes, two train tracks, a pedestrian walkway, and a cycleway.
4. Bridge Climb:
   • One of the most popular tourist activities in Sydney is the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. This guided tour takes participants along the arches of the bridge to its summit, offering breath-taking panoramic views of the harbour and city.
5. Cultural Significance:
   • The Sydney Harbour Bridge, along with the nearby Sydney Opera House, forms a globally recognised symbol of Sydney and Australia.
   • It is a central feature in major events such as New Year’s Eve fireworks and the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
6. Maintenance:
   • The bridge undergoes constant maintenance due to the sheer volume of traffic and the exposure to the elements. The steel structure requires regular painting to prevent corrosion, a process that is continuous and takes years to complete.

Historical Context:

The Sydney Harbour Bridge was built during the Great Depression, providing much-needed jobs at the time. Its construction was a significant engineering achievement, and it remains a testament to early 20th-century engineering prowess.

Today, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but also a major tourist attraction and an enduring symbol of Sydney’s architectural and cultural heritage.

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE AT HORNSEYS

At Hornseys, we are dedicated to offering items that uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of artwork is carefully curated to ensure that each edition is a valuable and authentic piece. Here’s what sets us apart:

Authenticity and Provenance: Each print is researched and verified for authenticity, guaranteeing that you receive a genuine signature from the artist.
Expert Curation: We wholly own all our artworks. We trust our taste and have invested heavily in it. We have confidence in all artwork that we offer for sale.
Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If, however, you wish to make a return, artworks may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for whatever reason. We request that we are notified in advance if you wish to do so. They must be returned to us in the same condition as they were sent for a full refund.

OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND SERVICE

Understanding the value and rarity of these items, we ensure that every aspect of your purchase meets the highest standards of quality and service. This includes:

Free Expedited, Tracked, and Insured Delivery within the UK: Ensuring that your artwork arrives safely and promptly.
Fully-Insured Worldwide Delivery: Offering peace of mind for international collectors with reliable and secure shipping options.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION

Visit Hornseys today to explore our fine collection of Paul Hogarth’s artworks and books. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a special gift, our selection offers something truly unique. Located since 1976 in Ripon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, we are recognised as a destination gallery for tastefully curated artwork, design, and fine books.