Craigie Aitchison C.B.E., R.S.A., R.A. (British, 1926-2009) Bird with Red Background 14.6 x 14.6 cm. (5 3/4 x 5 3/4 in.) (Painted in 1977)Craigie Aitchison C.B.E., R.S.A., R.A. (British, 1926-2009)Bird with Red Backgroundoil on canvas laid on card 14.6 x 14.6 cm. (5 3/4 x 5 3/4 in.)Painted in 1977ProvenanceWith Timothy Taylor Gallery, LondonPrivate Collection, U.K.Small but perfectly formed, with jewel-bright colours, Bird with Red Background distils all that is so wonderful about Aitchison's work. Best known for spare but striking compositions, often with one central motif, a measured use of paint, and bold use of colour, the present lot unmistakeably embodies all these qualities. Birds were a recurring subject, often appearing in many of his works, and here instead of featuring a bird as an ancillary motif, this sweet yellow and green bird takes centre stage.