Forest Scene with Birch Trees
Original mixed media painting on heavy paper or card stock • Signed "Moses" (Lower right). Likely a contemporary artist specialising in expressionistic landscapes.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Expressionism / Abstract Landscape
Medium & Technique
Mixed media including acrylic or oil, charcoal, and potential sgraffito or incised line work to create texture. The technique involves layered washes of color contrasted with thick, gestural impasto for the tree trunks.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (c. 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 36 x 24 inches; Vertical Portrait format
Subject Description
A vertical composition depicting a dense grove of slender white-barked trees, likely birches or aspens, against a muted, earthy background of browns and ochres. The work uses vertical linearity to create a sense of depth and rhythm, focusing on the texture of bark and the atmospheric quality of a wooded interior.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paper appears flat with no significant bowing, though there is slight evidence of handling near the edges and a minor crease in the upper left corner.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$500 - $900 USD
Provenance History
Unknown. Signed by the artist; likely acquired through a contemporary art gallery or direct studio sale. No visible gallery labels are present in the photograph.
Art Historical Significance
The work reflects the enduring interest in the forest as a site for expressive mark-making. It follows the tradition of landscape abstraction where the subject serves as a scaffolding for tonal exploration and textural experimentation.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'Moses' signature in the lower right margin; use of incised white lines that cut through the paint layers to define slender branches and highlight the verticality of the scene.
Condition Issues
Visible surface contact with glazing may cause future issues; minor ripples near the top edge; slight dust accumulation inside the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is mounted using acid-free materials. If not already present, utilize UV-protective glass to prevent fading of the organic pigments and charcoal. Maintain a stable humidity environment to prevent paper rippling.