Two Raccoons in a Hollow Tree
Original drawing on heavy-textured paper • Bill Neat (Signed and dated 1976)
Style & Movement
Mid-20th Century Wildlife Illustration / Naturalism
Medium & Technique
Pen and ink with colored pencil or light watercolor wash; fine-line hatching and stippling techniques used for texture
Creation Period
1976
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8x10 inches in a vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A sentimental depiction of two young raccoons peeking out from a hollow in a tree. The composition is framed by delicate creeping vines with serrated leaves. The artist uses high-contrast ink for the facial markings and soft shading for the wood grain and foliage.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing signs of acid-burn from the matting and minor environmental yellowing
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a local art fair or small gallery in the late 1970s; currently in a private collection
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 1970s trend in North American wildlife art which focused on charming, representational depictions of local fauna for domestic decoration
Notable Features
Features a distinct cursive signature 'Bill Neat' followed by the date '1976' and a copyright symbol; the paper has a prominent 'laid' or pebbled texture
Condition Issues
Visible browning (mat burn) along the edges of the paper where it meets the brown matting; possible mild foxing or light surface dust due to age
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current acidic mount and re-mat with acid-free, archival-quality museum board; frame under UV-protective glass to prevent further fading of the ink and color