Barry Humphries’ Lorne artwork sells at auction

A PAINTING of Lorne by legendary Australian entertainer Barry Humphries has greatly exceeded its expected price at auction.

Leski Auctions conducted the auction of Edward Clark’s collection of Humphries’ works late last month.

Mr Clark, a gallery owner, sold Humphries two engravings 60 years ago, which began a long-standing friendship.

He received many gifts from Humphries, including artwork created by Humphries – who died in April 2023 – or works about Humphries that were created by others.

“Barry was a very talented man, but he downplayed his love of painting, referring to himself as a ‘Sunday painter’,” Mr Clark said.

“In truth it was his passion, particularly landscapes and especially beach scenes.

“He spent time with my family at Lorne where we had a cottage, and where a number of his most important works were created.”

Among the 23 lots for sale in the Edward Clark Collection of Barry Humphries were three oil paintings by Humphries, including Lot 1200, painted in Lorne and titled Lorne.

The oil on canvas had an estimate of between $6,000 and $10,000 but sold for $39,000.

The lots also included photographs by Rennie Ellis and Lewis Morley, theatrical posters, silkscreens and watercolours.

Mr Clark decided to sell the bulk of his collection after making the decision to downsize.

Some pieces will remain with him and his family, including some personal letters from Humphries, while he said a self-portrait in oil will be donated to the National Portrait Gallery “once I depart this mortal coil”.