The Cripples, 1949. A classic archetypal piece of L. S. Lowry’s work

A very rare limited edition print (1 of only 34 made ever produced) by L. S. Lowry.   This occasionaly contentious painting was influenced by Lowry's observation of the cross section of the most afflicted characters he often saw around Manchester in the wake of the second world war.
Like the Post-Impressionists, Lowry was interested in recording the nuances of everyday life, basing his work on observations of the world around him. Inspired by the industrial scenes in his hometown, Lowry would stop and sketch during the day then develop a painting such as The Cripples. His direct and distinctive style led art critic Jonathan Jones to call Lowry a modern primitive to be ranked alongside such artists as Henri Rousseau. A fan of its stiff consistency, Lowry painted with oil paints all of his life, using the paint straight from the tube. Just as Lowry was fascinated by capturing the quotidian, he was also quite elemental in his choice of materials. "I am a simple man, Lowry once said. I use simple materials: Ivory Black, Vermilion, Prussian Blue, Yellow Ochre, Flake White and no medium. Touches of this choice palette are visible in The Cripples, bringing the scenes realism to life to vivid, yet modest effect.
This very rare edition which is one of only 35 published worldwide. Supplied with a certificate of authenticity, signed by the Master Printer.   Bespoke frame and beautifully mounted. Excellent condition. H: 98cm W: 117cm D: 4cm