Expert: Valerie Zwart - 11/20/2007

Question
I have a thatched home with pond water color that has been in our family for years and years. It was my grand mother's and she passed away about 50 years ago.
I am trying to identify the artist and, of course, the value.

The handwriting is difficult to read (in pencil and in perfect condition. It seems to be P. Holiwey or Holiway.

Where do I start? an you help?

John

Answer
A challenging quest awaits you. Fortunately, we have the internet, which makes some of your search a little easier. I'm assuming you've tried the first tier of searching; various regional auctioneers and various search engine image-specific searches (e.g. Google image search). A key thing would be to determine when and where your grandmother acquired the painting. Then, try to find a local antiquarian or art dealer, preferably an old school type who really does love art, and see if he/she has ever heard of a Holiwey. Failing that, try a local or regional auction house specialist or a museum curator. Best of luck.