Snowfall in the Park
Limited edition lithographic print on deckle-edged paper • James Peter Cost (specifically attributed to the American painter, 1923-2002)
Style & Movement
American Impressionism / Contemporary Realism
Medium & Technique
Color lithography or high-quality offset lithograph reproducing a watercolor/mixed media original; features hand-numbered and titled margins in pencil.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980-1995)
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; visual image approximately 18 x 24 inches with frame approximately 30 x 36 inches.
Subject Description
A winter city park scene, likely Central Park, New York, featuring a horse-drawn carriage on a slushy path with leafless trees and a cool, blue-toned atmospheric perspective. A person in a dark coat stands near the carriage. The composition uses a strong diagonal across the foreground and emphasizes the play of light on snow and wet pavement.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible rippling of the paper suggests it is not fully adhered to the backing, and minor atmospheric glare is present on the glass.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Commercial gallery or private collection; numbered 107/350 in the lower left corner, indicating a limited production run for the art market.
Art Historical Significance
James Peter Cost was a popular California-based artist known for his nostalgic landscapes. This piece is a typical example of his commercial success in capturing serene, atmospheric urban scenes that appeal to broad decorative markets.
Notable Features
Hand-numbered 107/350; hand-titled 'Snowfall in the Park'; signature in the lower right; deckle-edged paper float-mounted within a matted frame.
Condition Issues
Slight paper waving (cockling) due to environmental humidity; minor frame scuffs; potential light fading depending on UV exposure history.
Conservation Recommendations
Check for acid-free mounting materials; ensure glass is replaced with UV-filtering acrylic if placed in a brightly lit room; maintain stable humidity to reduce paper warping.