Back
American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists
|
- Sale 2105
Live
| Philadelphia
Dec 8 | 2:00 PM EST
Live
| Philadelphia
Sale 2105
| Philadelphia
| Philadelphia
Estimate$40,000 – $60,000
Provenance:
Private Collection, New Jersey.
Literature:
The Saturday Evening Post, Philadelphia, September 30, 1950 (cover illustration).
Lot Essay:
Stevan Dohanos, prominent among a second generation of illustrators, contributed significantly to the development of distinct American visual style in the "afterglow" of America's Golden Age. His work for the Saturday Evening Post, in particular his nostalgic and heartwarming depictions of everyday life, epitomized the post-WWII era. Dohanos' illustrations, generally characterized by soft lighting and strong sentimental appeal, resonated with readers and helped to shape the nation's collective consciousness. Alongside Sarah S. Stilwell Weber, J. C. Leyendecker and Norman Rockwell–all represented in the present sale–Dohanos helped define the visual language of suburban culture in the mid-20th century.
Puppies for Sale, the cover illustration for the September 30, 1950 issue of The Saturday Evening Post, is an exceptional example of Dohanos' ability to distill the essence of childhood innocence and the simple joys of life. The painting's nostalgic mood, its emphasis on simple pleasures and its portrayal of a seemingly wholesome American family aligns with broader cultural trends of the 1950s. By emphasizing traditional values and idealized family life–here, a father, mother and their young son deliberate over "taking home a pal," as the sign entreats–Dohanos' work for The Saturday Evening Post contributed to the construction of a national identity rooted in peace, optimism and, it would appear, canine companionship.
Framed under glass. We see no evidence of restoration. The surface has some scattered minor losses, including tiny losses in areas of leaves at upper left, tree trunk, car at outer left edge, a cluster of apparent losses at left edge center to left of green shutter and a thin horizontal surface scratch at upper center left through part of shingling and extending into base of roof. Additional images available upon request.
The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.
The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.
Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.
To request further details about this lot, please email [email protected]
Adam Veil
VP, Head of Department, American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists
