05-17-201305-18-2013
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2655BBoston
May 17, 2013 12:00 PMCalender
408

Frank Weston Benson (American, 1862-1951) Yellowlegs

Sell one like this
$27,600$23,000
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2655BLocation: BostonDate / Time: May 17, 2013 12:00PM

Description:

Frank Weston Benson (American, 1862-1951)

Yellowlegs
Signed and dated "F.W. Benson '2..." l.r.
Watercolor on paper, 14 1/4 x 19 3/4 in. (36.3 x 50.0 cm),framed.
Condition: Mat burn, gently toned, minor foxing, hinged to back mat in two places on the reverse.

Provenance: Commissioned from the artist by Quincy Adams Shaw, then by family descent to the current owner.

N.B. Quincy Adams Shaw was a patron and personal friend of Frank Benson. It is believed that this work was done in the marshes in Eastham, Massachusetts, near Nauset Light Beach. The date on the front appears to be either '25 or '26. While in the midst of a respected career as an oil painter, Benson began painting seriously in watercolor in the early 1920s, perhaps inspired by the works of Winslow Homer. Yellowlegs shorebirds were favored subjects for the artist's well-loved sporting etchings.
Estimate $22,000-28,000

Provenance inscribed on a fragment of old backing paper now affixed to the foamcore backing board: "Given to M.R.C.S. by Q.A.S. Senior/in the late 1950s/ to Nicholas T. Rhinelander/from/M.R.C.S."

Tiny paper loss (1/16 to 1/8 in. high x 1/2 in. across) at center lower edge of sheet. Pinpoint fox mark to l.l. quadrant. with other minor foxing at u.c. edge of sheet. Mat burn around all four sides, paper tape hinged to mat, heavy wove paper, slight acid burn verso, no additional condition issues to report.


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

Frank Weston Benson, Quincy Adams Shaw, B. Quincy Adams Shaw, Massachusetts, Nauset Light Beach, Eastham, oil, oil painter, Winslow Homer, Q.A.S., Nicholas T. Rhinelander