Cecilia Beaux (American, 1855-1942) Portrait of a Young Woman

Description:

Cecilia Beaux (American, 1855-1942)

Portrait of a Young Woman
Unsigned, titled and identified on a presentation plaque.
Oil on canvas, 36 x 29 in. (91.4 x 73.7 cm),framed.
Condition: Lined, stretcher replaced, craquelure with lifting, scattered small paint losses, scattered retouch, varnish inconsistencies.

Provenance: J. Jonathan Joseph, Boston, Massachusetts, to Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cyker, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, June 15, 1993; by family descent to the current private collection.
Estimate $15,000-25,000

N.B. A copy of a letter confirming the work's authenticity, signed by Tara L. Tappert, Ph.D., and dated June 1991, accompanies the lot. Dr. Tappert noted that Beaux probably executed the painting at her summer home and studio, "Green Alley," in Gloucester, Massachusetts, sometime between 1912 and 1918, and that the portrait was sold at the 1966 estate sale of American artist Jane Peterson. Peterson also had a studio in Gloucester, and occasionally socialized with Beaux.

The painting has been professionally restored. There are many dots and dashes of retouch primarily to the background of the portrait; the sitter is largely untouched, except for a few dots in her hair and blouse. The background has a mottled, painterly appearance, with visible brushwork, which helps to harmonize any retouch within the whole. The craquelure is primarily in the background and seems stable, but it remains noticeable in raking light.


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.

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