A charming and delicately rendered vintage graphic print layout from the early catalog of British publisher and artist Julian Williams, c.1980s. The artwork features an intimate and whimsical scene of two round-bodied sparrows or chickadees huddled close on a gnarled tree branch, sharing a tense moment that playfully mirrors its title. The piece showcases a lovely focus on fine line definition, high-contrast ink work, and soft, atmospheric shading.
This unique production proof comes presented in a classic vintage wooden frame under glass with an off-white mat board, providing a fascinating look behind the scenes of 1980s and 1990s British commercial art publishing.
Marks & Provenance
Marks: Inscribed with production notations on the lower face, titled "A Lover's Tiff" in the center, and bearing the artist's signature/mark on the lower right. The reverse backing reveals the original layout framework, featuring design stock number "B22," the explicit catalog text "Reproduced from an etching by Julian Williams ©," and handwritten sizing coordinates.
Provenance: Sourced from a collection featuring verified artist history. Williams confirmed he sold early batches of his designs from his street stall in Covent Garden, London (1982–1988) to a gallery owner based in Little Rock, Arkansas, from which this commercial layout stock originates.
Condition Report
Artwork: The print is in excellent vintage condition with rich, crisp ink coverage. The specialized layout paper shows uniform, light age-appropriate toning.
Frame: The vintage frame is sturdy, well-preserved, and structurally sound under glass, showing light surface wear consistent with age.
Specifications
Artist: Julian Williams (British, b. 1950s) / Two Bad Mice Publishers Ltd.
Title: A Lover's Tiff (Design Catalog No. B22)
Medium: Vintage Lithographic Production Print / Card Layout Stock
Frame Dimensions: 10”W x 12”H x 1”D
Visible Art Size (Window): 3.625"W x 5"H
Orientation: Portrait / Vertical
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