In the Park (or Summer in the Park)
Painting on canvas • Maurice Prendergast (American, 1858–1924)
Style & Movement
American Post-Impressionism / The Eight (Ashcan Circle variation)
Medium & Technique
Oil and crayon on canvas; heavy impasto and painterly application with mosaic-like brushwork
Creation Period
Circa 1912-1914
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 24 inches; vertical/portrait orientation (as shown in this photo, though likely viewed horizontally originally)
Subject Description
A crowded park scene featuring stylized figures (mostly women and children in hats) and horses. The composition is flattened with decorative, tapestry-like patches of color, emphasizing rhythmic patterns over depth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (Visualized under UV light); fluorescence indicates age-appropriate varnish wear and minor surface interventions
Estimated Market Value
USD $150,000 - $350,000
Auction Estimate
USD $100,000 - $250,000
Provenance History
Likely originated from the artist’s estate or early 20th-century New England collections; commonly held in major US institutional or private American art collections
Art Historical Significance
A major bridge between European Post-Impressionism and American Modernism; Prendergast was unique among 'The Eight' for his focus on color patch theory and decorative flatness.
Notable Features
Features the artist's distinctive 'broken' brushwork and 'Prendergast' signature visible in the upper-left margin of the image orientation provided
Condition Issues
Visible UV fluorescence suggests some scattered retouching or stabilized craquelure; potential slight yellowing of old varnish layers
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a climate-controlled environment (50% RH); use UV-filtering museum glass and low-heat LED lighting to prevent pigment fading