δ RICHARD WILLIS (BRITISH, B. 1924)

MTB 758 at speed

Signed and dated 'Richard Willis 1988'

Oil on canvas laid on board

16½ x 23¾in. (42 x 60.5cm.)

Provenance: Believed commissioned by Edward DuCann M.P.

MTB 758 was a 'Fairmile D' class torpedo boat built by Alex Robertson & Sons Ltd.Edward. Ordered in 1942, it was commissioned in October 1944 and sold from the service in 1956. DuCann (1924-2017) was commissioned as an officer in the Royal Navy in World War II serving as a Lieutenant in motor torpedo boats. Based in East Anglia he patrolled the North Sea and served alongside both Owen Aisher (later a yachtsman and entrepreneur) and David Wickins. In 1956, he was elected MP for Taunton in a by-election and became Chairman of the Conservative Party 1965-67. It was at DuCann's home that the 1922 Committee met and dropped Edward Heath in favour of Margaret Thatcher in 1974.

Condition Report

Fine condition

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.