Herbert F. Denman (American, 1855-1903) Nymphs with Swans

Description:

Herbert F. Denman (American, 1855-1903)

Nymphs with Swans from Prothalamion by Edmund Spenser, alternate title Spring
Signed and dated "Herbert Denman/1895" l.r., titled on an unattributed label affixed
to the stretcher.
Oil on canvas, 26 x 36 in. (66.0 x 91.5 cm),framed.
Condition: Lined, paint losses with areas of flaking along the bottom and right edges, retouch, minor surface grime.

N.B. Prothalamion was published in 1596 in honor of the double marriage of the daughters of the Earl of Worcester, Elizabeth Somerset and Katherine Somerset. Spenser's poem included the following lines which inspired this composition: "There, in a meadow, by the river's side,/A flock of nymphs I chanced to espy,...With that, I saw two swans of goodly hue/Come softly swimming down along the Lee; Two fairer birds I yet did never see."
Estimate $5,000-7,000

The lining is adhered with glue or resin. The flaking and losses are all within 2 inches of the edges of the canvas, and the vast majority of the retouch is within the areas of loss.


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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