Lot Essay
The present work previously belonged to the collection of the highly influential art historian, Bryan Robertson. As the Director of the Whitechapel Gallery from 1952-1974, Robertson breathed new life into the gallery space and curated a number of noteworthy exhibitions that emphasised Britain's leading position in the development of post-war art. Alongside his exhibitions of David Hockney, Bridget Riley and Henry Moore, the art historian recognised a similar innovative quality in the work of Prunella Clough, hosting a major retrospective of her work in 1960. Following the exhibition, Robertson and Clough grew to be great friends. The artist requested that Annely Juda Fine Art hold an exhibition of her paintings following her death, where named people, included Bryan Robertson, were asked to choose a painting. Attracted to the bright colour and abstracted composition, Rural Green I was chosen by Robertson at the exhibition and remained in his collection for the rest of his lifetime.