American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists

The present lot will be included in Ronald G. Pisano's forthcoming volume, Complete Catalogue of Known and Documented Works in All Media by William Merritt Chase (1849-1916).

Provenance:

George Washington Martin, Martin, Tennessee, 1904.

By descent to the present owner.

Lot Note:

This portrait demonstrates both the bravura brushwork and dark palette reflecting the impact of Chase's studies in Munich as a young man. His signature, as well, captures the artist's confidence as one of the premier portrait painters in both New York and Philadelphia, where he had studios. In the first decade of the twentieth century until his death, Chase completed portraits of countless prominent figures. This work depicts George Washington Martin (1838-1913), who along with his two brothers, was instrumental in the development of the town of Martin, Tennessee. Martin is seen in his dark suit against a brown background, but Chase highlights his sitter's hair and expressive eyes through his use of light to capture the viewer's attention. The portrait exemplifies both Chase's masterful technique in depicting the varying textures and shades of black in Martin's suit and in his rendering of Martin's expressive eyes and knitted brow.

Framed: 40 3/4 x 35 3/4 x 4 in.

The unlined canvas is in overall fair condition. Craquelure present throughout the work. Evidence of cosmetic repair present at upper left and right with patching to verso. Slight discoloration around repairs visible to naked eye and under UV. Evidence of cosmetic retouching present at lower center and top center extreme edge visible under UV. Small apparent accretion present at upper left edge. A heavy fluorescing green varnish is present under UV. 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.