Michael Leunig was an iconic Australian cartoonist, writer, painter, philosopher and poet, best known for his cartoons published in the Sydney Morning Herald and Age newspapers over 55 years. Spanning the political, cultural and philosophical, his visual world was one of whimsy, wit and a deep humanity.

'In spite of everything...' is an original drawing for a cartoon. The print presents a visual juxtaposition between the seemingly comfortable inner world of a couple in bed, and the external forces that threaten to disrupt it. Uncharacteristically optimistic for Leunig, this work suggests that despite life’s hardships and external challenges, a sense of contentment and inner peace can still be preserved. It offers a rare, uplifting perspective that acknowledges adversity while emphasizing the resilience of human happiness, in spite of everything….

'In spite of everything...' offers collectors a unique insight into the relation between the cartoonist and his publishers. The print is inscribed in the top right-hand corner; an anecdotal inscription details instructions to the publication as to the location of this print in the paper. This is a unique feature of Leunig’s hand drawn works and a draw card for collectors of important works on paper. It is recognisably by the artist, provenanced from the Leunig family’s private collection and hand-signed by Leunig himself. 

Michael LEUNIG (1945 - 2024)
'In spite of everything...'
ink on paper
Image Size: 16 x 20 cm
Dimensions: 21 x 29 cm
Signed: Signed Leunig lower right. Hand-written note Letters page 5/5 drop the dot in upper left margin. 4 AUG 1994 stamped on verso.
Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Very Good: Describes a work of art's image as Excellent, but may show some small signs of surrounding wear to paper or frame. Buckling across the piece of paper caused by the application of the medium. Some small marks and white out commensurate with the works materiality and reflective of the artists process.

(c) The Artist or Assignee