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Fine Art/Hudson River School Artist

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Expert: Stuart Cartwright - 10/31/2009


Question

Unknown Hudson School
Hello Stuart,

I found your name and email address on all experts.com.  I was wondering if you could help me. The attached photograph is a self portrait of a Hudson River School artist purchased at an Antique Auction near Rhinebeck, NY in the late 70's.  As I recall the artist had a studio locally and other items were also sold. The oil painting on some kind of paper board had water damage along its lower edge. Unfortunately the artist signature was badly damaged and removed when my parents (now deceased) had it framed.  If you can be helpful in identifying this artist it would be appreciated.  The portrait is approximately 12 X 16 inches.  There is nothing on the back.


Thank You
Skip Acquaro  

Answer
Skip,
I have seen this picture before, but I can't recall where.

It is not a portrait of a Hudson River School artist from the days of the Hudson River School genre...simply too modern, but I do believe it is a self-portrait, and it is lodged in the recesses of my withering brain that it is.  

From the sitters dress, the style of painting, I would say this was done perhaps after 1930, and perhaps even after WWII.   I think your artist is much more a modern American artist...I will keep thinking about it...it is torturing me.  I know I've seen it, perhaps in a catalog raisonne or advertising a show.  

Have you tried contacting some of the museums in the Rhinebeck area?

Stu
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you very much for your very prompt answer. Please keep thinking about it and let me know if you figure out who this is. Thanks again Skip


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Stuart Cartwright

Expertise

American Fine Art Paintings.
Oils, Watercolors, Sketches. Nineteenth and early Twentieth Century. Hudson River School, Pennsylvania Academy, Cape Ann artists, Ash Can, Woodstock, Florida Indian River, American Impressionists, etc. I can provide some background about artists and perhaps a rough appraisal or guidance towards obtaining a value. I am acquainted with many of the best American art dealers and auction houses. Original works only, I do not follow the print market. I do NOT field questions about prints.

Important to know
I am not expert in European art. I encourage you to send questions on European artists to other experts on this service. NO PRINTS:I encourage you to seek help on prints elsewhere. Two sites come to mind: www.artoftheprint.com and www.philaprintshop.com

Experience

I have been collecting original American Fine Art for over 20 years. I have curated art shows, and I have served as a dealer, providing appraisals and guidance for the last 8 years.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Arts Master of Business Administration

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