Lot 40
  • 40

Fairfield Porter

Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 USD
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Description

  • Fairfield Porter
  • Study for "Lizzie and Guitar" and Great Spruce Head: Two Pastels
  • the first signed Fairfield Porter and dated 73 (lower right)
  • each pastel on paper
  • 20 by 16 inches (51 by 40.6 cm)
  • 12 by 18 inches (30.5 by 45.7 cm)
  • The second executed circa 1965.

Provenance

Estate of the artist
Anne E.C. Porter (his wife)
By descent to the present owners

Exhibited

The Arts Club of Chicago, Fairfield Porter:  Paintings and Works on Paper, November 12 - December 31, 1984, no. 39 (Great Spruce Head)

Literature

Joan Ludman, Fairfield Porter:  A Catalogue Raisonné of the Paintings, Watercolors and Pastels, New York, 2001, no. L1286, p. 366 and L1279, p. 364, respectively, each illustrated

Condition

Both are in generallly good condition; some soiling to surface: scattered light stains in background of both; "Great Spruce Head": sheet is hinged with pieces of tape along upper edge, verso, to backing; "Lizzy" was not examined out of frame (could not disassemble frame without harming it)
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.

Catalogue Note

Of the Study for "Lizzie and Guitar", Joan Ludman states, "This is one of several studies and finished works portraying the Porters' daghter Lizzie playing the guitar, at which she was very proficient." (Ludman, op. cit., p. 366).  Referring to Great Spruce Head, Ms. Ludman writes, "Great Spruce Head Island in Maine, which was purchased by Fairfield's father in 1912, is slightly longer than a mile from the north end to the south end, with a natural harbor on the southern tip. (ibid., p. 364).