Lot 259
C. W. Glover (active 1950-1968). Half Length Portrait of Sir Barnes Wallis wearing a navy jacket, white shirt and Christ's Hospital School tie, oil on canvas, signed and dated 1968, 66cm x 56cm, within a gilt composition frame. Provenance: Sir Barnes Wallis thence by descent. Note: Sir Barnes Wallis was educated at Christ's Hospital between 1900 and 1904, and he retained a close and enduring connection with the school throughout his life. His affection for the institution was demonstrated in a remarkable act of generosity: he donated the 10,000 pound award he received from the Royal Commission on Awards to Inventors in recognition of his wartime work. Wallis directed the entire sum to Christ's Hospital to assist the children of those who had served in the Royal Air Force. In partnership with the RAF Benevolent Fund, which matched his gift, a dedicated trust was established to administer the award. Since its foundation in 1952, the Trust has supported more than 150 pupils. Each beneficiary has worn the distinctive Foundationers' badge, specially designed by Wallis himself. This work has been on loan with the Royal Air Force Museum for over 28 years.  £150-250