A Rare and Collectible Example of British Narrative Surrealism
Offered for sale is an exceptional and highly atmospheric original mid-20th-century watercolour painting by British artist Wenda Jerrum, titled “Death of Cleopatra”, dating from circa 1960. Signed lower right.
This striking work presents a bold and emotionally charged reinterpretation of Cleopatra’s final moments—rendered through the lens of Surrealism, with symbolic elements and a dreamlike composition that blends myth, history, and psychological drama.
Artistic Detail:
Executed in watercolour on paper, the painting depicts Cleopatra VII in a theatrical and stylised pose, caught in the moment before her death. Jerrum distorts space and figure in true Surrealist fashion—maidens recoil in suspended animation, while a powerful blue and gold figure restrains the enormous wings of the Bennu bird, the Egyptian phoenix symbolising death and rebirth.
Key Artistic Features Include:
A surreal composition blending c
...lassical narrative with modern symbolism
Vivid and emotionally symbolic use of colour (cool blues, intense golds, deep blacks)
A finely detailed checkered floor introducing visual depth and spatial distortion
Strong psychological presence and narrative tension
Jerrum’s painterly technique combines fluid linework with layered washes of colour, producing a haunting and theatrical tableau that is both technically accomplished and emotionally resonant.
The Artist – Wenda Jerrum
Although not widely documented, Wenda Jerrum is emerging as a noteworthy figure among collectors of British Surrealism and mid-century female artists.
Her work is characterised by:
Mythic and historical themes
Symbolic Surrealist imagery
A strong narrative sensibility
This piece is signed clearly in the lower right, authenticating its originality.
Framing:
The painting is mounted and beautifully presented in a custom Larson Juhl Canaletto frame, with a pewter and gold foil finish and spoon-profile moulding. Glazed with museum-grade AR70 glass for clarity and UV protection.
Framed Dimensions: 69 cm high × 51 cm wide × 3.5 cm deep
Condition:
Artwork: Good, with minor areas of foxing not affecting the overall impact.
Frame: Excellent condition; no visible damage or wear.
Provenance:
Private UK Collection
Previously held by Grays & Sons Carlisle Ltd
Offered by Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Summary:
A powerful example of mid-century British Surrealism
An unusual and highly symbolic portrayal of Cleopatra’s death
Signed and original work by a rising female Surrealist
Elegant and professional framing – ready to hang
Ideal for collectors of Surrealist, Egyptian-themed, or narrative artworks
Delivery:
We offer fully insured worldwide shipping, with careful professional packaging to ensure safe delivery.
A visually striking and rare collector’s piece – a true statement artwork that bridges historical narrative with modern symbolism.
Please enquire for further details or additional photographs.
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Delivery shipping information
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Internal Reference: 699
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1151940
Dateline of this antique is 1960
Height is 69cm (27.2inches)Width is 51cm (20.1inches)Depth is 3.5cm (1.4inches)
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