Landscape with Figures and Animals
Painting on paper or board, likely framed with a mat. • Attributed to Maurice Prendergast (American, 1858–1924) or in the Manner of Maurice Prendergast
Style & Movement
American Post-Impressionism / Modernism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor or gouache with possible graphite underdrawing. The technique appears to be post-impressionist 'tapestry' style with broken brushwork or flattened color planes.
Creation Period
Circa 1900–1920
Dimensions & Format
Small-scale, likely approximately 10 x 14 inches; horizontal/landscape format.
Subject Description
A pastoral or park scene featuring stylized figures (possibly women in long dresses) and animals (likely horses or donkeys) set against a mosaic-like landscape background. The composition is flattened, emphasizing decorative patterns over deep perspective.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The image is shown under UV (blacklight) which reveals uneven fluorescence. There is visible surface grime and possible foxing or staining in the lighter pigmented areas.
Estimated Market Value
If authenticated as a genuine Maurice Prendergast: $20,000 – $60,000 (depending on scale/medium). If attributed/manner of: $1,500 – $4,000.
Auction Estimate
If genuine: $15,000 – $35,000. If attributed: $800 – $2,000.
Provenance History
Unknown. The presence of a signature (lower right) suggests a gallery or private collection history. The style is typical of the Boston School or the 'Eight' (The Ashcan School) circle.
Art Historical Significance
Maurice Prendergast was a pioneer of American Modernism, known for his unique mosaic-like watercolor technique. This piece reflects the transition from Impressionism to a more structured, decorative Modernism influenced by European Nabis and Fauvism.
Notable Features
Significant 'Prendergast' signature in the lower right corner. The UV light reveals a darker fluorescence in specific pigments, which may help identify later additions or specific types of older watercolor binders.
Condition Issues
UV light indicates potential areas of retouching or overpainting in the lower right near the signature. There is visible yellowing of the paper/support and edge wear where the mat meets the artwork.
Conservation Recommendations
Full examination under normal light and infrared to verify signature age. Recommendation includes deacidification of the support, removal of non-archival mounting, and reframing with UV-protective museum glass.