Jessie Willcox Smith (American, 1863-1935) A Young Boy Sitting on a Garden Wall

Description:

Jessie Willcox Smith (American, 1863-1935)

A Young Boy Sitting on a Garden Wall
Signed "Jessie Wilcox Smith" l.l., identified on a label affixed to the reverse, a
label from the Madison Gallery, Atlanta, affixed to the backing.
Oil on canvas, 40 x 28 in. (101.6 x 71.1 cm),framed.
Condition: Lined, retouch.

N.B. Jessie Willcox Smith was one of the finest illustrators of America's Golden Age of Illustration. Smith first attended the School of Design for Women in Philadelphia, and a year later, in 1885, she enrolled at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, where she studied with Thomas Eakins. Smith also studied with Howard Pyle at his school for illustration at the Drexel Institute. Smith's career focused on illustrating scenes from childhood, and she was known for her ability to express the joy and innocence of that time. Her portraits, which successfully capture the moods and body language of her young sitters, were commissioned as her fame as an illustrator grew.

Estimate $22,000-28,000

The work is lined with wax adhesive. There is small to medium sizes areas of retouch as well as broad glazes throughout. Retouch includes large portions of the face of the sitter as well as parts of his collar and chest. Additionally there are large areas of retouch to the sky.


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.

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