Courtyard Scene, likely French Quarter (New Orleans)
Print on paper (potentially a lithograph or high-quality offset lithograph) • Don Davey (identified by the signature in the lower right corner)
Style & Movement
Mid-century American Realism / Regionalist Architectural Illustration
Medium & Technique
Lithography or commercial print process after a watercolor or gouache original; features visible stippling and color layering characteristic of print reproduction.
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th Century (Approx. 1960s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches (image), portrait format, housed in a standard wooden frame with matting.
Subject Description
An architectural study of a historic courtyard, depicting a traditional New Orleans or European-style patio with wrought-iron balconies, arched doorways, a large potted palm, and green shutters. The composition emphasizes depth through the shadowed archway and diagonal balcony lines.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing typical signs of age-related wear including slight yellowing of the mat and possible light-fading of the pigments.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $125 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a gallery or a tourist boutique in an area such as New Orleans or San Francisco. The bottom label suggests a professional framing by 'Crown Fine Arts'.
Art Historical Significance
Don Davey was a prolific and well-known American illustrator famous for his architectural drawings of major cities. While commercially widely distributed, his work is valued for its meticulous detail and documentation of urban historic districts.
Notable Features
Includes the artist's distinctive signature 'Don Davey' in the lower right; the framing label 'Crown Fine Arts' on the backing indicates a professional retail origin.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing or discoloration on the surrounding mat board; potential slight fading of the greens and blues from ultraviolet exposure; dust accumulation within the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Replace the existing matting with acid-free archival board; replace the glass with UV-protective museum glass to prevent further fading; keep out of direct sunlight.