One of only five examples of a Falmouth artist's single attempt at sculpture has been sold.

The Watcher was conceived by Henry Scott Tuke in 1916 because the Government had banned access to the coast due to Falmouth’s strategic importance.

Nigel Kirk, of Nottingham auctioneers Mellors & Kirk, said: “The Watcher was exhibited at The Royal Academy in 1916 and in subject and composition, it is strikingly similar to Tuke’s well-known paintings of local Falmouth lads that were the models for his paintings of bathers.”

He added: “Tuke occupies a unique and distinguished place in the history of Cornish painting and British post-impressionist art.

"Given the merit of The Watcher it is surprising that it was to be his only attempt at sculpture."

Tuke (1858-1929) was born to Quaker parents in York, but the following year the family moved to Falmouth. After training in London and spending some time in Newlyn artist’s colony, he returned to Falmouth in 1885.

The Watcher sold to a private buyer in the South of England, the price paid (including the buyer’s premium) was £18,600.

Tuke died in Falmouth in 1929 at the age of 70.