$17,220
Ralph Albert Blakelock (American, 1847-1919) The Trout Stream Signed "R. Blakelock" l.l. Oil on canvas, 16 x 12 in. (40.5 x 30.5 cm), framed. Condition: Lined, scattered retouch, craquelure, minor surface grime. N.B. The work has a label from the University of Nebraska Blakelock Inventory with the number 1408 #2 (Category II) affixed to the stretcher. Also on the stretcher is a copy of a letter from Norman Geske to Wayne Morrell of Rockport, Massachusetts, dated January 5, 1990, in which Dr. Geske describes the painting as having some of the best "handling" he has seen in some time, possessing "...the extraordinary kinetic brushwork which is the true hallmark of the artist." Dr. Geske goes on to explain that he assigned the work to Category II not because he found it lacking in any aesthetic aspect but because he was unable to establish a complete provenance back to the artist, which is a defining criterion for paintings in Category I. There is also a copy of an unattributed and undated ledger page affixed to the frame that suggests the title The Trout Stream and which lists the owner as Sidney D. Woolett of 127 Charles Street, Boston.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2015-01-23
