Johann Berthelsen (American, 1883-1972) Forty-second Street in Snow

Description:

Johann Berthelsen (American, 1883-1972)

Forty-second Street in Snow
Signed "Johann Berthelsen" l.r., numbered "11855" in ink on the reverse, with a label from Milton Schepps, New York, affixed to the frame backing paper.
Oil on canvasboard, 16 x 12 in. (40.5 x 30.5 cm),framed.
Condition: Surface grime, possible varnish discoloration.

N.B. We would like to thank Lee Berthelsen, the artist's son and founder of The Johann Berthelsen Conservancy, LLC, for authenticating this work and providing the following commentary. "The scene is 42nd street looking east at Grand Central Station all the way to the Chrysler building at 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue. Traders in Treasures was a shop owned by Milton Schepps who always claimed that his two closest friends in life were the writer Damon Runyon and my father. His store was also known as 'Jeweler to the stars,' and he was the man who introduced my father to Frank Sinatra who over the years collected over 30 of my father's paintings. The frame is by my mother, and the scene was always very popular. This rendition probably dates from the early 1950s and is one of the finest renditions I have seen." (1)

1. Text of email from Lee Berthelsen dated 7/13/2018.
Estimate $1,200-2,200

Framed dimensions are 19 1/2 x 15 1/2 in.

Canvasboard with a label from Grand Central Artists' Materials, Inc., New York.

Two abrasions in the center, one measuring 1 inch across and located in the tower (Chrysler Building),one measuring 1/8 in. slight higher in the tower, and then a third abrasion measuring 1-3/4 inches running diagonally in the side of the building on the center left side. Scattered dots which may be mold in the upper area of the sky. The painting would benefit from cleaning.



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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