Garden Party: The Collection of Renny Reynolds

Lot Note:

Robert Alexander Darrah Miller, commonly called RAD by his peers, held a peculiar position among the Pennsylvania Impressionists. A well-known figure in New Hope and a regular exhibitor at the Phillips' Mill, he nonetheless showed a reluctance to strictly abide by the tenets of the time and region. An emphasis on bold color coupled with softly contoured draftsmanship reveals a tendency towards the forward-thinking tenets of modernism, an influence subtly running through the work of the Pennsylvania Impressionists, though often resisted, but particularly evident in Miller’s paintings.

In Sunset, a rich shade of yellow covering the facades and spilling over into the pond, lawn and towering tree galvanizes the senses. It is ambiguous whether the mesmerizing yellow hue is paint, a reflection of the brilliant sunset, or both. As it blurs the line between the natural and the artificial, it conjures a feeling of wholeness, suggesting a symbiotic relationship between the landscape and the man-made additions in its midst. Miller thus professes in equal measure an impressionistic reverence to natural beauty and a modernist belief in the materiality and artificiality of art. 

The unlined canvas in excellent original condition. UV: nothing remarkable. 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 paulinearchambault@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.