Winter Shelter with Horses
Painting on canvas (likely canvas board or stretched canvas) • Melvin (Mel) Fillerup (1924–2000)
Style & Movement
Western American Realism / Impressionistic Realism
Medium & Technique
Oil or acrylic painting; employs wet-on-wet technique, impasto for snow highlights, and expressive, painterly brushwork with a limited winter palette.
Creation Period
Late 20th century (circa 1970–1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches (excluding frame); Landscape format
Subject Description
A rustic winter scene featuring a log cabin or stable nestled among bare, snow-dusted trees. Two horses stand in the foreground foraging in the snow. The composition uses a cold, atmospheric blue-grey tone to convey a quiet, wintry mood characteristic of the Wyoming or Western landscape.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paint layer appears stable with no visible flaking. The fabric liner of the frame shows minor age-related discoloration.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500
Auction Estimate
$600 - $1,200
Provenance History
Authentic signature of Mel Fillerup in the lower right. Likely acquired through a Western art gallery or directly from the artist's studio in Cody, Wyoming.
Art Historical Significance
Mel Fillerup was a prominent Wyoming artist known for his authentic depictions of the American West. His work is significant for its honest portrayal of ranch life and Western landscapes, capturing the spirit of the region without over-sentimentalization. He was a member of the American Watercolor Society and well-respected in the Cody art community.
Notable Features
Features a prominent and authentic 'M. Fillerup' signature. The frame is a classic 'Western style' rustic wood with a linen inset, typical for mid-to-late 20th-century Cowboy Art exhibition standards.
Condition Issues
Possible light surface grime or yellowing of the varnish consistent with age; minor scuffing on the wooden frame; fabric matting showing slight 'foxing' or spotting in corner areas.
Conservation Recommendations
Light professional surface cleaning recommended. Ensure the work is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent pigment fading. Consider replacing the fabric liner if discoloration persists.
Collector Notes
Mel fillerup artist