Awkward question | State Library of New South Wales

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That awkward question of price, illustration by Sydney Ure Smith

See what occurs when £90 is reached, 1913
Sydney Ure Smith (1887–1949)
Pencil and watercolour drawing in sketchbook
 PXA 1133, f. 6

Young artist Sydney Ure Smith raised the awkward question of money with his publisher, George Robertson. The sketchbook he created and dedicated to Angus & Robertson’s formidable co-founder in 1913 suggests payment was overdue for The Charm of Sydney. The playful cartoons that comprise this elaborate reminder notice provide an insight into the early relationship between two major characters in Australian publishing.

On display: January to November 2009