Castle prints up at auction

The screenprints are works by renowned artist John Piper (1903- 1992) and are being sold at Bonhams in London later this month.

Robert Kennan, head of prints at Bonhams, said: "Known as the most versatile artist of his generation, Piper was celebrated for his distinctive landscapes.

"And his views of Ludlow Castle and Stokesay Castle are characteristically atmospheric."

A screenprint of Ludlow Castle, dated 1972, and a 1981 screenprint of Stokesay Castle are expected to fetch between £800 and £1,200 each.

They will be sold at Bonhams' sale of Three British Artists - Graham Sutherland, John Piper and Henry Moore on November 27.

"Sir Kenneth Clark described the event 'as a very great landmark in the history of English art' and, indeed, the three went on to become household names and to exhibit their works around the globe.

"The aim of this landmark sale is show how diverse each artist was in their approach to a variety of media.

"Usually artistic disciplines are confined to specific sales.

"So you will rarely see a Piper drawing, textile design, poster and print sold together," said Mr Kennan.

"By combining them into one sale, I hope we can emphasis just how democratic each of their artistic visions were and how they readily accepted the challenge of different media.

"There is something for everyone in this sale, from the connoisseur to the first time buyer."

By Sally Jones