Nash (Paul) Original Christmas card with inset watercolour gift for Kenneth Clark (1903-1983), two sheets, the upper cover inscribed 'Christmas Card for K', the second sheet with original watercolour inset onto leaf with pencil inscription below 'Westminster Comment' and 'For K', watercolours, each sheet approx. 380 x 270 mm (14 7/8 x 10 5/8 in), the inset watercolour 280 x 195 mm (11 x 7 3/4 in), some minor surface dirt, handling creases and abrasion, uniformly framed, [circa 1945] (2)

Provenance:
Sale. Sotheby's London, Works of Art from the Collections of the Late Lord Clark of Saltwood, 27th June 1984, lot 49

⁂ In August 1939 Kenneth Clark made a proposal to the Ministry of Information to set up a scheme for War Artists, and Nash was eventually recruited for this endeavour alongside over 30 other artists. While the relationship between the two men began as slightly tumultuous, the present card suggests Nash did indeed develop a degree of friendship and appreciation towards Clark. The drawing gifted with the card appears to be a preliminary study for another work with shorthand notes and inscriptions.