Floral Still Life with Candelabrum
Painting on canvas (likely canvas board or stretched canvas) • Signed 'Jordan' (Lower right); likely a regional American or European studio artist or a prolific mid-century decorative painter.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Impressionist Realism / Decorative Still Life
Medium & Technique
Oil or heavy acrylic paint; techniques include impasto for the white chrysanthemums, wet-on-wet blending for the background, and scumbling to create the light effects on the crystal glassware.
Creation Period
Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1960–1980)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; Landscape format; Housed in a traditional gilt-wood frame with a linen liner.
Subject Description
A vibrant summer floral arrangement featuring white chrysanthemums and purple larkspur in a deep violet bowl. To the right is an ornate crystal candelabrum with prisms, resting on a draped blue tablecloth. The composition uses a cold color palette with highlights on the glass to create a sense of interior elegance.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the paint layer appears stable with minor surface grime. The linen liner of the frame shows slight discoloration consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $450 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired from a regional gallery or estate. No visible labels are present on the front.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-20th-century domestic decorative art, following the tradition of floral still life prevalent in suburban interior design. While not of high museum-grade significance, it demonstrates competent handling of light and glass textures.
Notable Features
Distinctive block-letter signature 'JORDAN' in the lower right corner; highly textured application of white paint in the flower petals providing a three-dimensional effect.
Condition Issues
Slight yellowing of the varnish (if oil-based), mild accumulation of dust in the impasto areas, and minor wear to the frame corners.
Conservation Recommendations
Surface cleaning by a professional to remove dust and tobacco smoke residue (if present). Display in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV sunlight to prevent pigment fading.