Lot 18: John S. Currie (British, circa 1884-1914) George Fletcher and Priests

John S. Currie (British, circa 1884-1914)
George Fletcher and Priests signed with initials 'J.C.' (centre right); variously inscribed (along lower edge)pencil22.5 x 33cm (8 7/8 x 13in).Executed in 1909

The present work was completed between January-September 1909, while Currie was a student at the Dublin Metropolitan School of Art. Currie took a studio in Dublin at 24a Wicklow Street, but also travelled extensively during his time in Ireland. The subject of the present work is George Fletcher, the Assistant Secretary in respect of Technical Instruction in the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction. A widely-known and highly-respected educationalist, he was also a member of the Royal Dublin Society and the Royal Irish Academy and was one of many leading lights of Dublin society that Currie came to know. Fletcher's only daughter was the famous florist Constance Spry.