An old friend of Brain Damage, Brian Wernham, has put a painting by Syd Barrett up for auction in a sale being held at Cheffins in Cambridge, on February 24th. Cheffins were the auction house which dealt with the sale of Barrett’s belongings following his death in 2006, on behalf of the Barrett family. The painting has been identified as a representation of the megaliths at West Kennet. Syd was very keen on megaliths, and his keen eye for colour is demonstrated in this very rare piece of late art. He burnt most of his final artwork, gaining satisfaction mainly from the process, and then unfortunately discarding most of the resulting art on his bonfire. The painting was professionally framed by Trumpington Galleries in Cambridge, with UV resistant glass to ensure the colours will remain rich. It is watercolour and gouache, mounted on blue sugar paper and measures 30cm x 42cm. It is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by Rosemary Barrett (Syd’s sister). Brian told us: “It really is a beautiful piece and beautifully framed. I hope it goes to a good home.” The painting is lot 284 in the The Art Design Sale to be held on February 24th at Cheffins (https://www.cheffins.co.uk/fine-art/lot-view,-roger-syd-barrett-british-19462006_82404.htm). The estimate is a (surprisingly low) £3,000 – £5,000. A previous work by Syd valued in that range sold last May for £28,270, so we suspect a similar figure for this one; his paintings rarely become available and surely over time opportunities will become fewer.
