$1,845
Frank Weston Benson (American, 1862-1951) Two Impressions of Two Canoes , 1927, trial proof A-3 and an impression from the published edition of 150 (Paff, 266). Both signed "FrankWBenson." in pencil l.l. and with pencil annotations l.l. Etchings on laid paper, plate sizes 5 7/8 x 7 3/4 in. (14.8 x 19.5 cm), unmatted, unframed. Condition: Margins 1 1/2 inches or more with most edges deckled, ink and fingerprints to the margins of the proof. Provenance: Descended within the family of the artist. N.B. The lot presented here illustrates the artist's compositional process. There were two states of this print prior to the published state. The first or A proof shows the canoes and figures fully delineated, though not completely modeled, and with almost no indication of water or distant horizon. These elements drift in a vast emptiness, yet Benson changes almost nothing but shadows as he suddenly puts them into the context of the surrounding landscape.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2016-09-23
