Description:
Robert Spear Dunning (American, 1829-1905)
Tabletop Still Life with Fruit and Roses
Signed and dated "R.S. Dunning 1879" l.l., signed, inscribed, and dated "R.S. Dunning pinxit/1879." on the reverse.
Oil on canvas, 14 x 12 in. (35.7 x 30.5 cm),framed (in a liner).
Condition: Cluster of small paint losses l.l., varnish discoloration, surface grime, minor canvas deformation to u.l. corner.
Estimate $6,000-8,000
Inscribed in pencil "$150#" on the stretcher.
Frame dimensions are 16 1/4 x 14 1/4 in.
Under raking light one can see that the varnish has been applied selectively over certain areas, such as the rose blossoms and foreground rose leaves, along the edges of the fruits, and on the leaves that bend over the edge of the table. No evidence of retouch or abrasion. Minor drying cracks in the ripe cherries and "shrinkage wrinkles" in the open rose blossom. Cluster of minute paint losses, about 10 in all, located l.l. above and to the right of the signature, at the edge of the frame. Some minor frame abrasion.
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
Robert SpearStephen L. Fletcher
Partner/Executive Vice President and Chief Auctioneer
Director of American Furniture & Decorative Arts
508-970-3000
Robin S.R. Starr
Vice President
Director of American & European Works of Art
508-970-3206
Elizabeth Haff
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Old Masters & 19th Century
508-970-3206
Kathleen M. Leland
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Modern & Contemporary Art
508-970-3206
James Leighton
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Fine Photographs
508-970-3206
American & European Works of Art
The American & European Works of Art department brings years of experience, connoisseurship, and knowledge of art history to bear in every fine art appraisal, evaluation, and auction.