Stunning raptor paintings on display at exhibition in Horncastle

THE strength of the market for paintings by George Lodge was reflected when his handsome study of a great skua went under the hammer at an auction held in February on the premises of Edinburgh-based Lyon & Turnbull. 

Including the buyer's premium, it sold for £1,134. 

The framed work measures 35.5cm x 55.5cm (14.25in x 21.75in). 

A falconer and taxidermist as well as an artist and ornithologist, Lodge (1860-1954) specialised in raptors and other predatory birds.

He provided many of the illustrations for Pirates and Predators, a book written by his ornithologist-friend, Richard Meinertzhagen.

An exhibition celebrating his life and work opened this week at the Joseph Banks Centre in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, his home county.

Pictured are the great skua, the Joseph Banks Centre and some of the hosts and guests who attended Tuesday evening's launch of the Lodge exhibition.

This handsome (and original) study of a sparrowhawk is one of several included in a superb exhibition dedicated to the work of artist George Lodge (1860-1954)  that had its launch this evening at the Joseph Banks Centre in Bridge Street, Horncastle. Lodge, a raptor specialist, was also a dedicated falconer. He grew up in the Horncastle area. The centre is open between 10am and 4pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.