Who painted Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2.?

Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2. was painted by Bayes in 1940.

Where can I see Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2.?

Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2. is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2.?

Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2. is associated with Art Brut.

Artwork

Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2.

Bayes , 1940

Rule's, 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2. is a watercolor work on paper by the Art Brut artist Bayes. It dates from 1940 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1940 watercolour captures the vibrant interior of Rule's restaurant at 35 Maiden Lane, W.

About this work

Overview

This 1940 watercolour captures the vibrant interior of Rule's restaurant at 35 Maiden Lane, W.C.2, conveying a sense of lively gathering amidst the backdrop of World War II.

Subject & Meaning

The scene focuses on diners in evening attire, with a prominently displayed lobster, reflecting British wartime life and the preservation of traditional social norms through art.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick strokes and a predominantly soft blue, purple, and brown palette, the work embodies a spontaneous, dynamic approach, evoking the immediacy of a snapshot.

History & Provenance

Commissioned under the Recording Britain project, funded by the Pilgrim Trust and led by Sir Kenneth Clark, the signed work aimed to document national identity during wartime.

Context

Created during World War II, the piece responds to concerns over wartime changes, emphasizing the endurance of cultural and urban life in Britain.

Artist & collection

Artist

Bayes

Walter John Bayes was an English painter and illustrator who was a founder member of both the Camden Town Group and the London Group and also a renowned art teacher and critic.