Brant Point Lighthouse, Nantucket
Photograph, likely a lithographic or inkjet print on paper • Attributed to J. S. Murphey (based on signature lower right)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Regional Realism / Nautical Photography
Medium & Technique
Color photography; offset lithography or digital print on medium-weight paper with matte finish
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (c. 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; estimated image size 8x10 or 11x14 inches (excluding matting)
Subject Description
A scenic view of the Brant Point Light on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. The composition includes the iconic wooden walkway, the lighthouse structure with its black lantern room and red-trimmed shingles, and a sailboat centered in the harbor against a muted, overcast sky. The foreground features coastal dune grass.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible matting and framing suggests a residential display environment
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a local gallery or gift shop on Nantucket or in the New England area; private collection
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the 'Nantucket Art' genre, which focuses on the preservation of local maritime heritage and the romanticized aesthetic of the New England coast. While not a primary piece of fine art history, it serves as a culturally significant souvenir of regional American tourism.
Notable Features
Hand-inscribed 'Nantucket Is.' in the lower-left margin and an original artist signature in the lower-right margin, distinguishing it from mass-produced unsigned posters.
Condition Issues
Potential light fading (UV exposure) indicated by the muted tones; slight rippling or 'cockling' of the paper may be present under the glass
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure use of acid-free matting; replace standard glass with UV-protective acrylic or glass to prevent further pigment degradation; keep away from direct sunlight