Mare and Foal (Heads of Two Horses)
Commercial print/lithograph on paper • Persis Clayton Weirs
Style & Movement
Contemporary Animalier/Nature Realism
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography reproducing a watercolor and gouache original. The original technique employs wet-on-wet watercolor for the atmospheric background and fine dry-brushing for the equine anatomical details.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1980-1995
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8x10 or 11x14 inches; vertical (portrait) format with an oval matting aperture.
Subject Description
A sentimental depiction of two dark horses, likely a mare and her foal, positioned in a profile overlap. The composition is framed within an oval vignette, surrounded by ethereal, cloud-like washes of purple and ochre pigments. It symbolizes maternal bonds and the grace of nature.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair. The print appears stable within the frame, though there is visible debris inside the glass and potential light fading to the pigments.
Estimated Market Value
$20.00 - $45.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$10.00 - $30.00 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a retail decorative hobbyist shop or a wildlife art gallery. No specific gallery labels are visible, suggesting private household ownership.
Art Historical Significance
Persis Clayton Weirs was a noted wildlife artist known for her contributions to the Wild Wings label. While commercially successful and culturally significant in the realm of 1980s-90s American rustic decor, such prints were produced in large quantities and hold decorative rather than fine art investment value.
Notable Features
Features the printed signature of the artist 'Persis Clayton Weirs' in the lower right of the oval. The frame is a standard gold-toned metallic or wood-composite molding reflective of late 20th-century home decor trends.
Condition Issues
Visible dust and particulate matter between the glass and the print; minor age-toning of the paper; frame shows slight wear on the gilding.
Conservation Recommendations
Glass should be cleaned on both sides to remove particulate. Re-mounting with acid-free archival matting and UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent further fading and 'acid burn' from the current cardboard backing.