A signed limited edition print by renowned British artist L.S. Lowry, depicting a now-vanished level crossing in Burton-on-Trent, has sold for £1,700 at a Staffordshire auction house located just miles from where the original landmark once stood. The artwork, titled "The Level Crossing, Burton-on-Trent," was sold by Richard Winterton Auctioneers in Lichfield, attracting significant interest from collectors and local history enthusiasts.
The print showcases Lowry's unmistakable artistic style, featuring his characteristic boxy depiction of a brewery train and the famous "matchstick figures" that made him one of Britain's most recognizable artists. Lowry is believed to have been a frequent visitor to Burton-on-Trent and created several works depicting various scenes throughout the town during his career.
The physical level crossing on High Street that inspired the artwork has long since been decommissioned and completely removed from the townscape. According to local reports, the original crossing gates found new life as fencing material for a nearby farm, making this artistic representation one of the few remaining records of the lost landmark.
"This was a lovely, clean, unfaded example of a lost local landmark in Lowry's trademark style," explained auctioneer David Fergus. "Frequently packed with fascinating detail, Lowry's distinctive images of industrial scenes and people have timeless appeal." Fergus noted that the condition of the print was exceptional, contributing to its strong sale price.
The print was part of a limited edition of 850 copies published in 1973, making it a relatively rare find for collectors. The original oil painting from which this print was made was completed by Lowry in 1961, during a period when the artist was particularly focused on industrial landscapes and everyday British life.
Historical details captured in the artwork include The Crossing pub, formerly known as The Blue Posts, which can be clearly seen on the right side of the composition. This attention to local detail demonstrates Lowry's commitment to documenting the authentic character of the communities he visited.
The seller, who came from the Sutton Coldfield area, had owned the piece for an undisclosed period before deciding to put it up for auction. The print was ultimately purchased by a private buyer within the United Kingdom, according to representatives from Richard Winterton Auctioneers. The sale reflects the continued strong market demand for Lowry's work and the particular appeal of pieces that document vanished aspects of British industrial heritage.
