Pittsburgh in the Fall
Reproduction print (offset lithograph) of a watercolor painting on paper • Nat Youngblood (American, 1916–2009)
Style & Movement
Mid-century Regionalism / Illustrative Realism
Medium & Technique
Mechanical printing of a watercolor; original uses wet-on-wet watercolor, dry brush details, and silhouettes
Creation Period
Late 20th century, likely circa 1960s-1980s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches (estimated standard print size); Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A panoramic view of the Pittsburgh skyline at the confluence of the three rivers (Point State Park). The composition features autumnal foliage in the foreground, including a dramatic dark tree silhouette on the left. The background shows the city's architecture and bridges under a blue sky with soft, diffused clouds. A barge is visible on the river, nodding to the city's industrial heritage.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible surface staining and creasing in the margins
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Likely a mass-produced print distributed through local Pittsburgh news syndicates (The Pittsburgh Press) or galleries
Art Historical Significance
Nat Youngblood was the art director for the Pittsburgh Press for 33 years; he is highly significant in Western Pennsylvania for documenting the region's landscape and post-war 'Renaissance' urban renewal through an accessible, watercolor-based illustrative style.
Notable Features
Features the printed credits 'PITTSBURGH IN THE FALL' and 'WATERCOLOR BY NAT YOUNGBLOOD' in the lower margin; signature 'Nat Youngblood' visible in the lower left of the image area.
Condition Issues
Notable brown spotting (foxing or surface dirt) in the white margins; horizontal creasing near the top; potential light fading from UV exposure; handling marks on the bottom edge.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of the paper margins; mounting with acid-free archival materials; framing under UV-protective glass to prevent further watercolor pigment fading.