Autumnal Forest Lake Scene
Drawing on paper • E. Danckwerts (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism / Impressionistic Landscape
Medium & Technique
Soft pastel on paper; techniques include scumbling for the foliage, heavy layering (impasto-like pastel application) for the sunlit grass, and linear mark-making for the tree branches.
Creation Period
October 1986 (dated '10/86' on the lower right)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches (estimated sight size); horizontal landscape format.
Subject Description
A tranquil landscape featuring a lake framed by deciduous and evergreen trees. The composition uses tall, vertical tree trunks in the foreground to create depth, leading the eye to a sunlit grove and reflections in the water. The gold and orange hues suggest an autumn setting.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the colors remain vibrant, though there appears to be some minor pastel dust migration behind the glass.
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $450
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a local gallery or exhibition in the late 1980s; signature indicates a contemporary regional artist active in the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of late 20th-century regional pastel landscape art, demonstrating mastery of the medium's textural and luminous qualities. It reflects the continued relevance of naturalistic landscape traditions in contemporary practice.
Notable Features
Distinctively signed 'E. DANCKWERTS' with the month and year '10/86'. Strong chiaroscuro effects in the foreground shadows contrasted against bright yellow sunlight.
Condition Issues
Visible pastel dust on the matting; potential slight yellowing of the paper support edges due to non-acid-free materials; minor surface abrasions on the wooden frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be reframed using acid-free mounting and a deeper spacer (shadowbox style) to prevent the pastel surface from touching the glass. UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent pigment fading.