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ID #SA1111836
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£2,795
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James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.
Big Sky Fine Art
for sale €3,270     $3,550
£2,795
Big Sky Fine Art

Big Sky Fine Art

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James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

1920 - 1940
For Sale by Big Sky Fine Art
Description

James Tower.

English ( b.1919 - d.1988 ).

Still Life Of Flowers In A Jug And A Bowl Of Apples, 1944.

Watercolour & Ink.

Signed & Dated Upper Right.

Image size 11.4 inches x 13.2 inches ( 29cm x 33.5cm ).

Frame size 18.1 inches x 19.7 inches ( 46cm x 50cm ).

Available for sale from Big Sky Fine Art in the English county of Dorset, this original wartime painting is by the English ceramic artist James Tower and is dated 1944.

The watercolour is presented and supplied in a sympathetic contemporary frame (which is shown in these photographs), mounted using new conservation materials and behind non-reflective Artglass AR 70™glass.

This vintage painting is in good condition, commensurate with its age. The painting is now preserved for future adoration and is ready to hang and to be appreciated.

The watercolour is signed and dated upper right.

Good News for our US Customers!

From 24 July 2026 the original works of art we sell are classified under the US Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS) Chapter 97 as exempt from the additional Section 301 import tariffs introduced in February 2026. This means that this original work of art can be imported into the United States without these additional tariffs. This allows American customers to buy from us with confidence, knowing that they are not going to be penalised by this global tariff.

Please note that normal U.S. Customs procedures and any applicable US State sales or use taxes remain unchanged.

We provide a professional shipping and delivery service which is free to customers in the UK, Europe, USA and Canada. We can also provide other worldwide delivery on any purchase. Please contact us for further information.

One of Britain’s most important 20th century ceramic artists; a quintessentially English sculptor, painter and teacher who was dedicated to his craft.

James Tower was born on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, and brought up in a landscape of tidal estuaries, reeds, fish, shells and patterns of water on sand that greatly influenced his later work. He had a childhood accident that blinded him in one eye.

He left home at 17 and decided to travel the world, eventually making his way to the South Seas. On his return, he studied painting at the Royal Academy, (1938-40), and his talent was recognised when he won the Gold Medal for Painting in 1939.

During the Second World War he enrolled for service and spent the war working in camouflage and mapping at the Polish Ministry of Information. He married fellow student Maureen McManus in 1944. After the war he returned to art, enrolling at the Slade School of Art in 1946. Here he attended Dora Billington’s classes and became fascinated with ceramics. After he graduated, he took further classes in the medium at the London Institute under the British potter William Newland.

In 1949 Tower was invited to set up a ceramics course at the progressive Bath Academy, Corsham. He established a diverse artistic environment, teaching and working alongside artists such as Terry Frost, Kenneth Armitage, William Scott and Peter Lanyon. Surrounded by such individualistic and impassioned artists, Tower began to develop his own unique approach to ceramics. His work was characterised by an emphasis on abstract; organic forms and painterly surfaces, evoking notions of nature, particularly foliage, water and the landscape. In 1963 he won a Leverhulme Research Award for terracotta research. Tower remained in post at Bath until 1964.

In 1966 he became Head of Fine Art at Brighton College of Art, where he set up a sculpture course and remained in post until 1986.

© Big Sky Fine Art

For a full biography of this artist please see his listing on www.bigskyfineart.com .

A full range of stock is available to browse or purchase at www.bigskyfineart.com .

Contact us by phone on +44 (0) 1305 581426 or email art@bigskyfineart.com .

Physical Dimensions
Height
46cm (18.11")
Width
50cm (19.69")
Depth
1.2cm (0.47")
Declaration

Big Sky Fine Art has dated this Framed Still Life Watercolour to the 1940s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1111836
Description
James Tower.

English ( b.1919 - d.1988 ).

Still Life Of Flowers In A Jug And A Bowl Of Apples, 1944.

Watercolour & Ink.

Signed & Dated Upper Right.

Image size 11.4 inches x 13.2 inches ( 29cm x 33.5cm ).

Frame size 18.1 inches x 19.7 inches ( 46cm x 50cm ).

Available for sale from Big Sky Fine Art in the English county of Dorset, this original wartime painting is by the English ceramic artist James Tower and is dated 1944.
Big Sky Fine Art
fig 1. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 1. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

The watercolour is presented and supplied in a sympathetic contemporary frame (which is shown in these photographs), mounted using new conservation materials and behind non-reflective Artglass AR 70™glass.

fig 2. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 2. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

This vintage painting is in good condition, commensurate with its age. The painting is now preserved for future adoration and is ready to hang and to be appreciated.

The watercolour is signed and dated upper right.

fig 3. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 3. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

Good News for our US Customers!

From 24 July 2026 the original works of art we sell are classified under the US Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS) Chapter 97 as exempt from the additional Section 301 import tariffs introduced in February 2026. This means that this original work of art can be imported into the United States without these additional tariffs. This allows American customers to buy from us with confidence, knowing that they are not going to be penalised by this global tariff.

fig 4. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 4. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

Please note that normal U.S. Customs procedures and any applicable US State sales or use taxes remain unchanged.

We provide a professional shipping and delivery service which is free to customers in the UK, Europe, USA and Canada. We can also provide other worldwide delivery on any purchase. Please contact us for further information.

fig 5. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 5. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

One of Britain’s most important 20th century ceramic artists; a quintessentially English sculptor, painter and teacher who was dedicated to his craft.

James Tower was born on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, and brought up in a landscape of tidal estuaries, reeds, fish, shells and patterns of water on sand that greatly influenced his later work. He had a childhood accident that blinded him in one eye.

fig 6. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 6. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

He left home at 17 and decided to travel the world, eventually making his way to the South Seas. On his return, he studied painting at the Royal Academy, (1938-40), and his talent was recognised when he won the Gold Medal for Painting in 1939.

fig 7. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 7. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

During the Second World War he enrolled for service and spent the war working in camouflage and mapping at the Polish Ministry of Information. He married fellow student Maureen McManus in 1944. After the war he returned to art, enrolling at the Slade School of Art in 1946. Here he attended Dora Billington’s classes and became fascinated with ceramics. After he graduated, he took further classes in the medium at the London Institute under the British potter William Newland.

fig 8. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 8. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

In 1949 Tower was invited to set up a ceramics course at the progressive Bath Academy, Corsham. He established a diverse artistic environment, teaching and working alongside artists such as Terry Frost, Kenneth Armitage, William Scott and Peter Lanyon. Surrounded by such individualistic and impassioned artists, Tower began to develop his own unique approach to ceramics. His work was characterised by an emphasis on abstract; organic forms and painterly surfaces, evoking notions of nature, particularly foliage, water and the landscape. In 1963 he won a Leverhulme Research Award for terracotta research. Tower remained in post at Bath until 1964.

fig 9. A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
fig 9. James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

In 1966 he became Head of Fine Art at Brighton College of Art, where he set up a sculpture course and remained in post until 1986.

© Big Sky Fine Art

For a full biography of this artist please see his listing on www.bigskyfineart.com .

A full range of stock is available to browse or purchase at www.bigskyfineart.com .

Contact us by phone on +44 (0) 1305 581426 or email art@bigskyfineart.com .

Height
46cm (18.11")
Width
50cm (19.69")
Depth
1.2cm (0.47")
Date of Manufacture

Big Sky Fine Art has dated this Framed Still Life Watercolour to the 1940s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1111836
Big Sky Fine Art
Big Sky Fine Art
Sellingantiques verified Since Aug 2020

Dealers in original fine art from 1800

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Big Sky Fine Art Profile Page

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A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
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Archive I A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.

James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life of Flowers in a Jug and a Bowl of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.

Archive II A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View II
Archive III A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View III
Archive IV A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View IV
Archive V A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View V
Archive VI A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View VI
Archive VII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View VII
Archive VIII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View VIII
Archive IX A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View IX
Archive X A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View X
Archive XI A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XI
Archive XII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XII
Archive XIII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XIII
Archive XIV A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XIV
Archive XV A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XV
Archive XVI A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XVI
Archive XVII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XVII
Archive XVIII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XVIII
Archive XIX A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XIX
Archive XX A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XX
Archive XXI A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXI
Archive XXII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXII
Archive XXIII A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXIII
Archive XXIV A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXIV
Archive XXV A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXV
Archive XXVI A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples. View XXVI
Enlarged Archival View
Telephone 01305 581426
Location
Greenwood House
Plaisters Lane
Sutton Poyntz
Dorset
DT3 6LQ
United Kingdom

Under appointment only.
Verified Since Aug 2020
Items For Sale 90
Items Sold 3
Big Sky Fine Art
Big Sky Fine Art
Verified Since Aug 2020
View Dealer Info
Location: Greenwood House, Plaisters Lane, Sutton Poyntz, Dorset, DT3 6LQ, United Kingdom, , Under appointment only.
Verified
Aug 2020
For Sale
90
Sold
3
A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
James Tower 1919 - 1988. English. Still Life Of Flowers In A Jug And A Bowl Of Apples, 1944. Framed Wartime Watercolour Painting.
Ref: SA1111836
A framed wartime watercolour painting by James Tower depicting a floral jug next to a bowl of apples.
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Archival Detail
Every single antique dealer on our platform is individually approved by our internal team. We verify their professional trade history, ethical standards, and photographic quality to ensure a secure, high-standard buying environment. Upon joining, every dealer agrees to a strict 9-point code of conduct. While issues can occasionally arise, our dealers typically resolve them swiftly and directly with the buyer. In fact, since our founding in 2002, Sellingantiques has only had to step in to help resolve an issue on roughly five occasions—a true testament to the quality of our dealers and their dedication to your happiness.
Our dealers are highly experienced in packing and shipping fragile, high-value antiques. Because you are in direct contact with the dealer, you will be able to easily go through all available shipping and insurance options together to ensure your item arrives safely.
Antiques are the ultimate green purchase. By choosing historical pieces over newly manufactured goods, you completely eliminate the carbon footprint of modern mass production while preserving exceptional, timeless craftsmanship.

Mid-20th-century British watercolour still lifes often combine expressive linework with subtle, earthy washes, reflecting post-war realism and Neo-Romantic influences popular during the 1940s.

These works are traditionally executed using watercolour pigments, gouache, or Indian ink on heavy cotton rag paper, often presented behind glass with acid-free mount boards.

Authenticity can be assessed through the artists signature, date markings, period-appropriate paper age, provenance documentation, and characteristic brushwork techniques consistent with the artists portfolio.

Hang the framed piece as a focal point in a dining space, study, or hallway, paired with muted natural finishes, timber furniture, or light neutral wall surfaces.

Display the artwork away from direct sunlight and high humidity, utilizing UV-filtering glass and archival framing materials to prevent fading and paper discolouration.
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