Boy and Girl Gazing at Moon (Sunset)
Mass-produced print on textured substrate (simulated canvas) • Norman Rockwell (Original Artist); this is a contemporary commercial reproduction.
Style & Movement
American Illustration / Golden Age of Illustration
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography or mechanical reproduction; simulated canvas texture applied to mimic the original oil painting surface.
Creation Period
Original painting dated 1926; this specific reproduction likely dates to the late 20th century (1970s-1990s).
Dimensions & Format
Approx. 8x10 or 11x14 inches; portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A boy and girl sit on a rustic wooden bench with their backs turned to the viewer, gazing at a large orange moon or setting sun. A small dog sits beside them near a bait can and fishing pole, capturing a nostalgic, romanticized scene of rural childhood.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible yellowing of the substrate and some surface grime. The frame is a standard modern oak-style molding.
Estimated Market Value
$10 - $40 USD
Auction Estimate
$5 - $20 USD (often sold in bulk lots at estate auctions)
Provenance History
Likely purchased via a commercial retailer, gift shop, or decor gallery; no significant individual provenance recorded.
Art Historical Significance
The original 1926 painting was a cover for the Saturday Evening Post and is a quintessential example of Rockwell's ability to evoke sentimentality. As a reproduction, its significance lies in the democratized accessibility of Rockwell's work in mid-to-late 20th-century American homes.
Notable Features
Features a printed facsimile of Norman Rockwell's signature in the lower right corner; includes the iconic fishing pole and bait can motifs characteristic of his rural Americana themes.
Condition Issues
Discoloration of the print medium, potential fading due to UV exposure, and minor scuffing on the frame. The 'canvas' texture is an artificial embossing rather than a woven fabric.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent further UV fading; ensure the backing is acid-free to prevent further yellowing.