Blampied's paintings fetch over £37,000 at auction.

A rare collection of paintings by renowned Jersey artist Edmund Blampied has fetched over £37,000 at auction.

Six artworks went under the hammer at Dawsons Auctioneers in Jersey, with the highest bid going to "Seaweed Harvesting, Jersey," which sold for £13,000.

Previously, the collection was displayed at Government House during the tenure of Admiral Sir Randolph Stewart Gresham Nicholson as Jersey's Lieutenant-Governor. Jonathan Pratt, managing director of Dawsons Auctioneers, described the sale as "a privilege to handle such a distinguished collection."

Among the standout pieces was a watercolour titled "Peeling Potatoes," which depicts a woman in a blue top and dark headscarf engaged in peeling potatoes at a table. The painting was sold for £5,500 alongside a letter from Blampied to its former owner.

The auction house hailed Blampied, who passed away in 1966, as Jersey's "most celebrated artist," known for his ability to "capture the spirit of island life with authenticity and character."

The sale featured some of Blampied's most evocative portrayals of Jersey life, including "Surf Riders," which sold for £11,000, and "Vraicking, Jersey; Study of Flowers (verso)," which fetched £7,500. The letter accompanying "Peeling Potatoes" offered a glimpse into Blampied's personality and wit. Addressed to Lady Nicholson, it humorously remarked: "The old lady peeling potatoes must be, I am sure, feeling so greatly honoured at being in Government House – but at the same time wishing most desperately that she had on a cleaner apron and the hat especially reserved for Sundays, which is fitted with black grapes, ribbon, and a kingfisher..."

The successful auction underscored the enduring appeal of Blampied's work, highlighting his talent for illustrating the charm and traditions of Jersey life.