The series of bronzes and drawings depicting ,Figures in Balance ,draws its imagery from the world of the circus, and to this extent echoes the subject matter of his earliest paintings. Central to it, however, was Ayrtons interest in the logistics of the human form motivated in part by the artist’s growing arthritic condition. The momentary equilibrium in the midst of tension and movement is superbly captured.

The Nicolas and Frances McDowall Collection, U.K.

Michael Ayrton: Drawings and Sculpture, Cory, Adams & MacKay, Ltd., London, 1966, no.40