Lighthouse at Sunset
Painting on canvas • Indistinctly signed 'W. Andre' (or similar signature common to commercial studio art of this period). Likely a commercial gallery or decor artist.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Decorative Realism; often associated with the 'Bob Ross' style or hotel/furniture store art movement.
Medium & Technique
Oil or acrylic on canvas. Employs wet-on-wet techniques, palette knife applications for the breaking surf, and blending for the atmospheric sky.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (approximately 1970–1990)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 24 x 36 inches; horizontal landscape format.
Subject Description
A romanticized coastal scene featuring a stone lighthouse on a rocky cliff, a small cabin nestled nearby, and crashing waves in the foreground under a vibrant, multi-tone sunset sky. The work emphasizes atmospheric color and idealized nature.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The colors remain vibrant; however, there is visible surface dust and potential minor yellowing of a top varnish coat.
Estimated Market Value
100.00 USD - 250.00 USD
Auction Estimate
50.00 USD - 150.00 USD
Provenance History
Gifted to current owner. Likely originally purchased from a commercial art gallery, department store, or residential art fair during the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Low art historical significance. This represents a piece of 'mass-appeal' decorative art intended for interior design rather than museum exhibition. It reflects the popular taste for nautical and landscape motifs in North American homes during the 1970s and 80s.
Notable Features
Features a 'linen liner' frame typical of the 1970s/80s. The signature is in red, a common habit for commercial artists to ensure visibility against dark foregrounds.
Condition Issues
Possible minor surface grime (nicotine/dust), potential drying craquelure in the thicker impasto areas of the waves, and minor frame abrasions around the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading of pigsments. Light surface cleaning with a soft brush specifically for art; professional cleaning is not financially warranted given the market value.
Collector Notes
Was given as a present