Adam's IMPORTANT IRISH ART 9th December 2020

50 43 WILLIAM CONOR RHA RUA ROI (1881-1968) Children Playing on a Seesaw Oil on canvas, 51 x 61cm (20 x 24’’) Signed; inscribed verso ‘ The Suggley Shoe ’ Provenance: With The Bell Gallery, Belfast, label verso. William Conor’s early career as an artist saw him working as a poster designer in Bel- fast for David Allen & Sons Ltd. This training can be glimpsed throughout his work as bucolic figures gaze smilingly at the viewer, ruddy, full cheeks negating any prospect of adversity. Indeed, many of Conor’s works read as poster-perfect propaganda for Northern Ireland, promising a place where prosperity reigns. The current lot offers a charming glimpse of childhood idyll. Harmoniously playing under a sunny sky, the figures to the foreground swing up and down, their joy palpa- ble. One young girl turns her head towards us, bringing us into the image. Whether we assume the role of parent or fellow playmate, we are invited to share her glee, a smile of satisfaction bouncing from her face to ours. Helena Carlyle, November 2020 € 12,000 - 16,000