Description:
Edward Hopper (American, 1882-1967)
Letter with a Sketch of an Artist at Work by a Lighthouse
Sketch signed "E. Hopper" l.r., letter signed "from Edward & Josephine Hopper"
at the close of the text.
Ink on paper, 8 1/2 x 11 in. (21.5 x 28.0 cm),unmatted, unframed.
Condition: Gentle toning, acid burn to the edges of the sheet, horizontal and vertical creases typical of a letter folded to fit an envelope, with small tears at the edges of the horizontal crease, the larger of the two measuring 3/8 in. (1.0 cm).
N.B. The text of the letter appears to be in the hand of Josephine Hopper. The letter is dated "August 1" although no year is given. The letter was written from the Coast Guard Station, Two Lights, Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The text conveys birthday wishes to "Mrs. Hooper" in California and describes the pleasure of being on the Maine coast. "It's so blissful to be out in the open spaces, on the edge of rough water. E.H. is painting when he can see to paint thru the fog." The text sets the scene for Hopper's "self portrait" as a stick-figure artist at work at his easel on a rocky bluff before a lighthouse.
Estimate $8,000-12,000
The dimensions of the sketch are approximately 2 3/4 x 4 1/2 in. (7.0 x 11.5 cm). The vertical crease on that panel runs through the center of the lighthouse.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
Josephine HopperRobin S.R. Starr
Vice President
Director of American & European Works of Art
508-970-3206
Elizabeth Haff
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Old Masters & 19th Century
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Kathleen M. Leland
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Modern & Contemporary Art
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James Leighton
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Fine Photographs
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American & European Works of Art
The American & European Works of Art department brings years of experience, connoisseurship, and knowledge of art history to bear in every fine art appraisal, evaluation, and auction.