American School, 19th Century Three Fraternal Organization Painted Window Shades: Interior Scene with a Happy Family, American Steam B

Description:

American School, 19th Century

Three Fraternal Organization Painted Window Shades: Interior Scene with a Happy Family, "American Steam Boiler Works," and "Builders." Unsigned, two with inscription "Eastlack 231 N 2nd St.", one of the inscriptions flanked by a Masonic joiner's square and compass. Oil on canvas, c. 1880, each 56 x 60 in., unframed, mounted on wood stretchers. Condition: Relined, minor pigment transfer on one.

Literature: Robert Bishop in American Folk Painters of America writes that "A similar pair of paintings were executed for the Order of United American Mechanics through their Office of the State Council of Pennsylvania. They were probably commissioned from a local artist who was charged with the creation of teaching or demonstration aids that could be used by union members in their recruiting efforts. This organization was one of many that, during the nineteenth century, attempted to represent the working class in its struggle to achieve for the common man a sense of dignity, independence, and a measured sense of security... inspiring working men to seek a better way of life for their families.
Estimate $10,000-15,000

Keywords