Vivian Bewick
Night must fall, original vintage book cover

Gouache

24 x 16 cm
Signed to reverse

This vibrant work was originally a book cover design for the play ‘Night Must Fall’ by Emlyn Williams. This psychological thriller follows the story of a charming yet mysterious young man named Dan, who takes a job as a caregiver for Mrs. Bramson, an irritable and wealthy elderly woman living in a secluded English countryside home. Despite his charisma, Dan harbours a dark secret, as he is revealed to be a murderer. This striking composition features Bewick’s characteristically masterful use of silhouette to create an effect of suspense and tension, in-keeping with the themes of the play. The bright colours against dark gouache make this piece stand out and notably distinguish it as a beautiful work within Bewick’s extensive oeuvre.

Vivian Bewick (1912–1999) was a British artist and educator, notable for his contributions to mid-20th-century art and his role as a tutor at the Buckhurst Hill Community Association (BHCA). He was also a descendant of Thomas Bewick, the renowned 19th-century engraver celebrated for his depictions of birds and animals.