Mountain Landscape with Stream and Pasture
Painting on panel or canvas board • Don Ricks (1934–1996)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Western Realism / American Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on panel with alla prima technique; expressive impasto in the foreground and mountains, wet-on-wet brushwork, and structural landscape blocking
Creation Period
1985 (as indicated by the signature and date)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 9x12 inches or 11x14 inches; landscape orientation in a standard rectangular format.
Subject Description
A tranquil western landscape featuring a verdant valley or pasture in the foreground, bifurcated by a narrow stream and primitive wood fencing. The background is dominated by a majestic, snow-capped mountain range under a clear sky. The composition uses leading lines from the stream and fence to guide the viewer toward the distant peaks.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the paint film appears stable with vibrant pigment retention and no visible signs of craquelure or structural damage.
Estimated Market Value
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD
Provenance History
Signed and dated 'Don Ricks 85' lower right. Likely acquired through a gallery specializing in Western American art or directly from the artist's studio in the mid-1980s.
Art Historical Significance
Don Ricks was a prominent figure in the Intermountain West art scene, known for his mastery of light and landscape. This work is a representative example of his 1980s style, capturing the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains with the technical proficiency expected of a professional Western realist.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'Don Ricks' cursive signature with trailing year '85'. High-quality use of a palette knife or broad brush for the mountain highlights, creating a sense of three-dimensional texture.
Condition Issues
None visible; minor surface dust may be present. The linen liner of the frame shows typical light aging but the artwork itself appears pristine.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light. Professional cleaning of the surface is not currently necessary but should be monitored for nicotine or dust buildup over decades.