The detailed, evocative watercolour depicts a horrific scene of a man being tortured by Nazi soldiers. It is one of only three known fully executed watercolours of this subject painted in the years 1936 to 1939 following his emigration to the USA in 1933.

Grosz’s oeuvre is greatly under-represented in UK public collections with only 15 examples of his work available for public view. Aside from illustrated publications, only six of these works are housed in London museums. The British Museum and the V&A have one print each. Tate has four original works on paper from 1916, 1919, 1925 and 1930.

Stephen Deuchar, Director of the Art Fund said: "Works of art such as this help tell the stories of our past to future generations, and that’s why it’s so important that this work is on public display. We’re delighted it is now a permanent part of the Ben Uri Gallery, enriching its already impressive collection of works from this period."

The painting will go on display on 8 December.

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