Still Life with Green Fruits, Grapes, and Pottery Bottle
Original pastel drawing on paper, matted and framed • Signed lower left; appears to read 'Morgan Everett' or a similar nomenclature. Attributed to a professional mid-to-late 20th-century regional artist.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Realism / Traditional Still Life
Medium & Technique
Soft pastel on a toned бумаге (likely grey or neutral paper). Techniques include blending for the skin of the fruit, scumbling for the background atmospheric effects, and sharp linear strokes for the vessel edges and signature.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (approximately 1970–1990) based on the stylistic rendering and framing style.
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 18 x 24 inches (sight), 24 x 30 inches (framed). Landscape format.
Subject Description
A classic still life composition featuring a ceramic or pewter bowl filled with green fruits (likely pears or figs), a cluster of purple grapes spilling onto the tabletop, and a dark, tall stoneware or ceramic bottle in the background. The composition uses a triangular arrangement to create balance and a soft, diffused light source from the left.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The pastel pigments appear vibrant with no visible smudging or significant fading. The paper appears flat without waving.
Estimated Market Value
USD 300 - USD 600
Auction Estimate
USD 200 - USD 400
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a gallery or art fair; no specific labels are visible on the front, but the professional framing suggests a private collection or residential setting.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the late 20th-century revival of traditional still life techniques. While not part of a major avant-garde movement, it demonstrates high technical proficiency in the difficult medium of pastel and follows the lineage of Dutch and French still life traditions.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of highlights on the grapes to create a sense of translucency. The use of a muted, monochromatic background contrasts effectively with the saturation of the green fruits.
Condition Issues
Minor age-related dust under the glass. Slight acidic toning may be present on the mat board edges if not archival. Possible minor abrasions on the frame molding.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent pastel fading. If the mat is not acid-free, replace with archival materials to prevent 'mat burn.' Use UV-protective glass if relocating to a brighter room.
Collector Notes
Pastel