Description:
Milton Clark Avery (American, 1885-1965)
Freighters
Unsigned.
Oil on linen stretched over board, 11 1/2 x 14 in. (27.9 x 35.5 cm),framed.
Condition: Retouch, varnish discoloration, surface grime.
N. B. This work was dated by the Milton Avery Foundation to circa 1925. The painting has been constructed by stretching a linen dish towel over a pressed paper board. It was very typical of Avery to be economical and re-purpose everyday materials to make his canvases at this time. In this case, the linen only stretches over to the right and left of the painting. Evidently there was not enough material for the top and bottom. At this time, Avery was still experimenting with wax to make his impasto, a technique he first started to use in the late nineteen-teens. By the early 1920s his paint became increasingly thicker, but as critics became more and more interested in his painting technique, Avery started to thin his impasto. This work still has a very waxy surface, but the paint is much thinner. A certificate of authenticity from the Milton & Sally Avery Arts Foundation Inc. (ID A21116) accompanies this lot.
Estimate $1,500-2,000
Condition: Area of retouch center top rim measuring approximately 1 x 3 cm. Area of retouch in lower left quadrant measuring approximately 2 x 5 cm. Additional speckled areas across the canvas.
Frame dimensions: 12 x 14 1/2 in.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
Milton Clark AveryRobin S.R. Starr
Vice President
Director of American & European Works of Art
508-970-3206
Elizabeth Haff
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Old Masters & 19th Century
508-970-3206
Kathleen M. Leland
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Modern & Contemporary Art
508-970-3206
James Leighton
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Fine Photographs
508-970-3206
American & European Works of Art
The American & European Works of Art department brings years of experience, connoisseurship, and knowledge of art history to bear in every fine art appraisal, evaluation, and auction.