Feliks Topolski (1907-1989): An original ink and wash drawing of a monk, attributed to Feliks Topolski. The design is on artists board, created circa 1930s/ 1940s. The drawing is initialled to lower right corner “F.T”.  Framed and glazed within vintage printed frame bears Christies Auctioneers stock labels verso.

Dimensions: The frame 26.5 x 21.5cm

The Artist

Feliks Topolski (1907-1989) was a Polish born artist who spent the majority of his career in Britain. Topolski’s art and illustrations are frequently in an expressionistic and graphic style. Many of his most famous works featured portraits of important figures or historic events.

Topolski trained as an artist at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw. He first moved to London in 1935 following a visit to cover King George V silver jubilee celebrations.

Feliks Topolski mixed in intellectual circles in London and produced a number of portraits of some of the most important figures of the day including; Evelyn Waugh and Graham Greene.

During the Second World War, Topolski worked as an official war artist for both Britain and Poland. He travelled extensively capturing the conflict numerous countries in Europe, Asia and North Africa. Additionally, he also produced many drawings of the London Blitz when he was himself injured.

Post War Feliks Topolski travelled to India and the United States. Upon his return to Britain he won a number of important commissions including for the Festival of Britain in 1951, and was employed by Prince Phillip to design a corridor in Buckingham Palace.

The latter part of his career brought more travel where he documented important global political events in particular. Topolski was a prolific illustrator, he produced designs for numerous books, set and costume designs.

Feliks Topolski’s work can be found in the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, The Tate Gallery, The Imperial War Museum, The National Portrait Gallery and the British Museum.

An almost identical Feliks Topolski drawing of a monk can be found in the collection of the Museum of Diplomacy and Polish Refugees in Poland.

To read more about the artist and view further works see: https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/person/mp07899/feliks-topolski?role=art

To see further works by Feliks Topolski included in our store visit:

SCHOOL PRINTS: Feliks Topolski (1907 – 1989) for School Prints Ltd. “This England”, 1947,

Dimensions: Dimensions: The frame 26.5 x 21.5cm

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Shipping: Price includes free insured shipping to a UK address. If you are based outside of the UK please email us directly for a cost price shipping quote.

Condition Report: Overall good condition, some surface dirt, fading and discolouration to board. Displays extremely well (see images).