Lot 112: Eric Harald Macbeth Robertson 1887-1941 , study of a seated nude (recto), the crucifixion (verso) oil on canvas

oil on canvas

measurements note 73 by 124 cm., 29 by 49 in.

Seated Nude was painted around c.1912 and was the first version of a series of nude compositions that Robertson painted during this period. In Edinburgh, Robertson became friendly with John Duncan who introduced him into the world of Celtic Myth and the Symbolist painters. In Duncan's studio he met Cecile Walton, daughter of E.A. Walton, who became his wife. In 1912 he showed in Edinburgh with Barclay, Hutchison, Spence Smith, Storrock and Sutherland and they later formed the Edinburgh Group in 1919. Robertson's unconventional morality together with the nudity found in many of his works at the time scandalised Edinburgh. However, these works are regarded to be amongst his best works. A contemporary wrote that 'he had genius no one who ever came into contact with him could possibly doubt'.