Expert: Joseph B. Laskowski - 6/20/2009

Question
I have what appears to be a print titled The Balclutha in Full Sail, by Alec Stern; sailing ship with billowing sails, blue sky, and ivory colored clouds. On the back of the frame is an About the Artist commentary from the Studio of Alec Stern, San Mateo California. If you have additional information, or perhaps approximate value I would be most appreciative. Kind regards, Chauncey 

Answer
Alexander Stern was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on March 28, 1904. "Alec" Stern came to San Francisco with his family as an infant. He was raised there in Cow Hollow and was educated at Polytechnic High School. After graduating from Columbia University, he returned to California and entered the California School of Fine Arts. He worked his way through school as a riveter in shipyards and playing in a dance band. Stern was a member of the art department of the San Francisco Chronicle for eight years. During 1935-44 he worked in New York City on art commissions. Upon returning to California, he established a studio-home and printing plant in San Mateo where he produced Christmas cards, etchings, and prints. Stern died in San Francisco on November 10, 1994. Exhibited: San Francisco Art Ass'n, 1924-25; Peninsula Art Ass'n; Chicago and Philadelphia Societies of Etchers (many awards). Works held: Metropolitan Museum; New York Public Library.

If it is signed in pencil than it would be worth $300-$350. If it is just a print without his pencil signature $100.