Mezzotint of Winston Churchill in front of No. 10 Downing Street in 1940. By Macbeth-Raeburn, Henry

Clear dark imprint with facsimile signature of Winston Churchill at the base. This mezzotint has been inspected carefully under a loupe and is in excellent original and authentic condition. It measures 64.5 cm x 41 cm within the indent. The sheet size is 55.5 cm x 75 cm. The sheet is loose and not stuck down on card. Loosely attached to a very attractive white mount with gilt border. In an excellent solid wooden frame with gilt inner border, the frame measuring 68.5 cm x 91 cm x 3 cm. Macbeth-Raeburn was an experienced and accomplished printmaker and a member of the Royal Academy. He prepared the mezzotint copper plate in 1940 soon after Winston Churchill became prime minister, and this deeply evocative image has the man posing in front of the door of No. 10 Downing Street with a cigar and cane in one hand and his hat and gloves in the other. He is at the height of his power, about to fulfill his destiny and change history for the better. Apparently the artist planned to publish a run but did not do so. This would have been difficult during the war years, and Macbeth-Raeburn died in 1947 , only two years after the war ended. Rare proof copies were made, in 1947 and in 1951. This unsigned and unnumbered print is one of those earlier proof copies. Later, in 2000, Peter Harrington of London published a numbered limited edition of 250 mezzotints, which are now sold out. Will only be sent overseas at cost by express courier, which will incur an extra charge. You are welcome to enquire for a quote. Please note that I can only send the frame without the glass, in order to protect the mezzotint, or I can send the mezzotint in a roll without the frame, which will be cheaper. Excellent rand hedge investment. Seller Inventory # 80017