Floral Still Life with Crystal Candelabra
Painting on canvas • Signed 'Jordan' in the lower right corner; likely a skilled regional artist or studio painter in the American Impressionist tradition.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Impressionism / Transitional Traditionalism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, employing Impressionistic brushwork with wet-on-wet blending and soft impasto for texture in the flower petals.
Creation Period
Mid to Late 20th Century (circa 1960-1980)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 16 x 20 inches; Landscape format; Housed in a carved gilt wood frame with linen liner.
Subject Description
A still life composition featuring a violet-colored ceramic bowl filled with white and pink chrysanthemums and purple larkspur. To the right, a faceted crystal candelabra/hurricane lamp adds a vertical element against a muted blue-grey background. The scene is set on a draped light blue cloth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The paint film appears stable with minor surface dust and slight yellowing of the varnish consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $600
Auction Estimate
$200 - $400
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a commercial gallery or art retailer during the mid-to-late 20th century; signature suggests an American or European professional artist active in the decorative art market.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the mid-century revival of floral still life painting, demonstrating the continued popularity of domestic-scale Impressionism and classical table compositions for middle-market collectors.
Notable Features
Distinctive block-style signature 'Jordan' with a unique stylized 'J'; elaborate carved gold-finished frame which suggests mid-century high-end interior decor presentation.
Condition Issues
Visible surface grime; minor craquelure throughout the lighter white pigments; light age-toning to the linen liner of the frame; small area of paint loss or abrasion possible at the very top edge near the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning to remove dust and light nicotine/grime; application of a fresh UV-protective varnish; maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.