Description
Subject & Medium
Original watercolour on artist-quality paper, depicting a Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) perched on a flowering branch and captured at the moment of song. Executed circa the 1950s, this work reflects Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe’s mature mid-century period, when his synthesis of scientific accuracy and refined artistic composition was at its peak. The sheet is monogrammed “CT”, consistent with authenticated examples from this phase of his career.
Composition & Technique
The composition is vertically oriented, drawing focus to the bird while allowing the flowering branch to introduce diagonal movement and seasonal context. Tunnicliffe employs layered translucent washes to build volume and tonal depth, complemented by precise linework and subtle dry-brush detailing to articulate feather structure and bark texture. The colour palette is restrained and natural—warm browns, soft greys, and gentle blossom tones—demonstrating tonal discipline and compositional balance. The result is a work that operates equally as a rigorous ornithological study and a resolved piece of fine art.
About the Artist
Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe OBE RA (1901–1979) is regarded as one of the foremost British wildlife artists of the twentieth century. Trained in Belfast and later working extensively from the Isle of Anglesey, Tunnicliffe achieved international recognition through book illustration, exhibition work, and commissioned paintings. He was elected a Royal Academician and awarded the OBE for services to art. His works are represented in major museum and institutional collections and are highly sought after for their integrity of observation, disciplined draughtsmanship, and enduring aesthetic appeal.
Historical & Cultural Significance ��
The song thrush has long held a place in British literature and folklore, admired for its distinctive repeated song and symbolic association with renewal and resilience. This watercolour reflects post-war Britain’s renewed engagement with nature and conservation, situating the work firmly within the mid-century British natural-history tradition that bridged scientific illustration and domestic fine art display.
Signed
Monogrammed “CT” in the lower margin, consistent with Tunnicliffe’s known mid-century signing practice. The handling, palette, and compositional approach align closely with authenticated works. Original auction and exhibition labels are present on the verso. Independent condition or attribution reports can be arranged upon request.
Framing & Presentation
Presented in a sympathetic later wooden frame, likely oak, with a cream double mount and subtle line inlay. Professionally backed and secured, retaining original auction and exhibition labels to the reverse. The presentation is period-appropriate and ready to hang, suitable for domestic interiors, galleries, or institutional settings.
Provenance & Exhibition History
This work benefits from a clear and well-documented provenance. Early private ownership in Lancashire, followed by sale at Rogers Jones & Co, The Welsh Sale, Cardiff (Lot 224). Subsequently exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire (January 2026). Curated and marketed by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD. Original auction tagging and verso labels accompany the work and will be supplied with the sale.
Condition Report
The watercolour is in excellent vintage condition. No active foxing, staining, or pigment loss observed; colours remain fresh and stable. The mount and glazing are secure, and the frame shows wear & scuff scratch marks to the upper top section consistent with use. No immediate conservation is required. For long-term institutional display, museum-grade UV-filtering glazing and controlled environmental conditions are recommended.
Dimensions Framed �� Framed size: 46 cm high × 40 cm wide × 1.5 cm deep
Painting (visible): 25 cm high × 22 cm wide
Why You’ll Love It
Museum-quality workmanship by a Royal Academician at the height of his career
Auction and exhibition provenance, enhancing collectability and resale confidence
Period-appropriate framing, ready for immediate display
Broad appeal to collectors, designers, galleries, museums, and film/TV production buyers
Sound long-term acquisition within a stable and established international market
Add this notable ornithology masterpiece to your collection today.
Reserve: $28,350.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
Mid-Century Song Thrush Bird Painting By Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe OBE RA
Estimate $34,000-$41,000
Starting Price
$14,000
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: United Kingdom Offers In-House Shipping
See More Items From This Chairish Estate Finds Seller
See More Items From This Chairish Estate Finds Seller
Ways to Pay on LiveAuctioneers
Wire Transfer (Bank Payment)
Meet the Auction House
10498
4.5
54321
Sporting, Animal & Equestrian Art Auction
May 07, 2026 5:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
TOP