A rare signed pencil drawing by L. S Lowry is expected to fetch up to £50,000 at auction.
The peaceful cottage sketch, titled Beech Cottage, Romiley, was created in 1930 and captures a quieter, rural scene in Cheshire far removed from his iconic industrial landscapes.
Measuring 19 by 27.5cm, the signed and dated artwork will be offered for sale by Littleton Auctions in Middle Littleton on Saturday, August 1.
Benjamin Homer, managing director of Littleton Auctions, said: "Lowry is known around the world for his industrial landscapes and his famous matchstick figures, but his drawings are fundamental to understanding him as an artist.
"When I first saw this picture, the quality of the drawing immediately stood out.
"Once we examined the provenance and established its history, it became clear that we were dealing with a significant original work.
"What I particularly like about Beech Cottage, Romiley, is that it shows a quieter side of Lowry.
"There are no crowds or factory chimneys.
"It is a remarkably intimate drawing of a real place, created by Lowry in 1930."
The drawing is accompanied by detailed provenance tracing its journey through the art market.
Previously offered by Bonhams and later handled by Clark Art Ltd, a dealer specialising in Northern and Modern British art, it was eventually acquired by a private collector and has remained in private hands for around 11 years.
Lowry, born in 1887, spent much of his life in Manchester and Salford and is widely celebrated for his distinctive industrial scenes.
However, he also produced a substantial body of work depicting a quieter side of life in the North West.
Drawings like Beech Cottage, Romiley are increasingly sought after by collectors, particularly those with documented provenance and clearly identifiable locations.
On the reverse of the drawing are historic inscriptions identifying the cottage and its location in Romiley, along with gallery documentation confirming the title.
Mr Homer said: "Lowry remains one of Britain’s most recognisable artists, and original drawings of this quality rarely become available.
"We expect interest from established Lowry collectors both in the UK and internationally, while the Romiley connection is likely to resonate with local historians and buyers who appreciate the area's heritage."
The drawing is expected to realise between £30,000 and £50,000.
