09-11-201509-12-2015
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2841BBoston
September 11, 2015 04:00 PMCalender
399

Edward Hopper (American, 1882-1967) Letter with a Sketch of an Artist at Work by a Lighthouse

Sell one like this
$2,460$2,000
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2841BLocation: BostonDate / Time: September 11, 2015 4:00PM

Description:

Edward Hopper (American, 1882-1967)

Letter with a Sketch of an Artist at Work by a Lighthouse
Sketch signed "E. Hopper" l.r., letter signed "from Edward & Josephine Hopper"
at the close of the text.
Ink on paper, 8 1/2 x 11 in. (21.5 x 28.0 cm),unmatted, unframed.
Condition: Gentle toning, acid burn to the edges of the sheet, horizontal and vertical creases typical of a letter folded to fit an envelope, with small tears at the edges of the horizontal crease, the larger of the two measuring 3/8 in. (1.0 cm).

N.B. The text of the letter appears to be in the hand of Josephine Hopper. The letter is dated "August 1" although no year is given. The letter was written from the Coast Guard Station, Two Lights, Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The text conveys birthday wishes to "Mrs. Hooper" in California and describes the pleasure of being on the Maine coast. "It's so blissful to be out in the open spaces, on the edge of rough water. E.H. is painting when he can see to paint thru the fog." The text sets the scene for Hopper's "self portrait" as a stick-figure artist at work at his easel on a rocky bluff before a lighthouse.
Estimate $8,000-12,000

The dimensions of the sketch are approximately 2 3/4 x 4 1/2 in. (7.0 x 11.5 cm). The vertical crease on that panel runs through the center of the lighthouse.


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

Josephine Hopper