Carson Sutherlin Davenport

Sale:  Doyle's, New York, November 4, 1992, lot 42
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

Canvas is not lined. SURFACE: in good condition UNDER ULTRA VIOLET: no apparent inpainting
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A native of Danville, Virginia, Davenport came to public attention in 1934 when First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt chose a painting he created for the Public Works Art Project, Pioneer Women, to exhibit in the White House.  1n 1936, the artist was commissioned by the U.S. Treasury Section of Fine Arts to illustrate American industry as decoration for new post offices being created by President Roosevelt's New Deal during the depression.  By the end of the 1930s, Davenport had executed three murals, two for post offices in Greensboro, Georgia and one for the post office in Chatham, Virginia.  He went on to become the director of the WPA Art School and Gallery at Big Stone Gap, Virginia  and in the 1940s began a long tenure as the chair of the Averett College Art Deparment in Danville.  A reticent man, Davenport said of his art, "I am not a public speaker.  I just prefer to come quietly and leave my work for people to see, and hope they enjoy them."