Robert Sargent Austin R.A P.P.R.W.S P.P.R.E 1895-1973. Pencil drawing on pink washed paper. Female nude, three quarter view with arms resting on hips. 26th.November 1947. Signed with initials and dated. 31.5 by 44.5 cms image. 51 by 65 cms. Framed overall. Provenance: Ex.The Fine Art Society. Robert Austin Exhibition October 2002. No.49. Illustrated.
Austin was a Leicester born artist, illustrator, printmaker and draughtsman. Widely considered to be one of Britain's leading mid 20th.Century engravers, known for his meticulous draughtsmanship and attention to detail. He studied at The Royal College of Art between 1914 and 16 and after War Service completed his studies there, studying under Sir Frank Short. In 1922 he won the coveted Rome Scholarship for engraving. He taught engraving at The Royal College of Art between 1927 and 1944, eventually becoming Professor in the department of graphic design. He exhibited widely at the RWS of which he was a member and president and the RE of which he was a member and also president. He was elected to the Royal Academy in 1949.