Vintage Signed Lithograph of Alfriston Sussex by Robert Taverner (1920-2004), Village Landscape Framed English Countryside Art

This evocative lithograph by Robert Taverner captures the timeless charm of Alfriston, Sussex, a historic village in the heart of the South Downs. The composition depicts gently sloping fields leading the eye towards the church spire and clustered cottages, framed by bare winter trees and a winding stream in the foreground. Birds wheel through the sky above, adding a sense of movement and quiet rural life.

Robert Taverner (1920-2004) was a well known English printmaker, illustrator and art educator. He was actually head of Printmaking at Eastbourne College of Art and Design - which makes this lithograph of Alfiston which is just down the road from Eastbourne, all the more sentimental as he would have known the area well.

Taverner exhibited widely and some of his works are actually held in public collections in V&A museum and British Museum. His work was particularly collectible in the mid 20th century. It is not clear when this lithograph was completed as it is not dated BUT it is signed and titled by Taverner.

This appears to be a hand coloured lithograph by Robert Taverner, original print, but I am not 100% sure. It is supremely high quality.

It looks aged as the underlining paper is a little discoloured around the edges which ironically goes very well with the yellows of the actual paint wash. The colours are a restrained palette of black, grey, and soft beige brings an elegant, slightly wintry mood that sits beautifully in both traditional and contemporary interiors. It is a magical scene of the Cuckmere river, and Alfriston village in the background.

This appears to be a vintage artists proof - quite likely mid century, but with a slightly later vintage shabby chic type wooden frame. It is definitely ready to hang and is an exceptional painting to own. This is a wonderful piece for collectors of Sussex art, English village prints, and mid-century illustration, or for anyone seeking a characterful and locally-inspired artwork to celebrate the landscape of the South Downs.

Size : 36cm x 30.5cm approx frame size, 25.5cm x 18.5cm approx aperture