01-23-201501-24-2015
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2779BBoston
January 23, 2015 04:00 PMCalender
394

Ralph Albert Blakelock (American, 1847-1919) The Trout Stream

Sell one like this
$17,220$14,000
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2779BLocation: BostonDate / Time: January 23, 2015 4:00PM

Description:

Ralph Albert Blakelock (American, 1847-1919)

The Trout Stream
Signed "R. Blakelock" l.l.
Oil on canvas, 16 x 12 in. (40.5 x 30.5 cm),framed.
Condition: Lined, scattered retouch, craquelure, minor surface grime.

N.B. The work has a label from the University of Nebraska Blakelock Inventory with the number 1408 #2 (Category II) affixed to the stretcher. Also on the stretcher is a copy of a letter from Norman Geske to Wayne Morrell of Rockport, Massachusetts, dated January 5, 1990, in which Dr. Geske describes the painting as having some of the best "handling" he has seen in some time, possessing "...the extraordinary kinetic brushwork which is the true hallmark of the artist." Dr. Geske goes on to explain that he assigned the work to Category II not because he found it lacking in any aesthetic aspect but because he was unable to establish a complete provenance back to the artist, which is a defining criterion for paintings in Category I. There is also a copy of an unattributed and undated ledger page affixed to the frame that suggests the title The Trout Stream and which lists the owner as Sidney D. Woolett of 127 Charles Street, Boston.
Estimate $3,500-5,500

The lining is adhered with glue or resin. There are strokes and dashes of retouch to the sky and along the lower edge plus possible old glazes to the sky. The craquelure is visible but stable.


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

Trout Stream, Ralph Albert Blakelock, Norman Geske, University of Nebraska Blakelock Inventory, the University of Nebraska, Massachusetts, Wayne Morrell, Rockport, Sidney D. Woolett