Figures on the Grass (Study for 'The Promenade')
Framed color print or reproduction on paper • After Maurice Prendergast (American, 1858–1924).
Style & Movement
American Modernism / Post-Impressionism (specifically associated with The Eight/Ashcan School but in Prendergast's unique decorative style).
Medium & Technique
Mechanical print (offset lithography or digital reproduction) of an original oil painting. The original work employs a mosaic-type post-impressionist application of oil with heavy texture.
Creation Period
Original work circa 1912-1915; this reproduction likely mid-to-late 20th century.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 18 inches (visual estimate); Landscape format.
Subject Description
The composition depicts a crowd of figures, predominantly women in white and colorful dresses, leisurely gathered in a park setting with a dog or small animal in the lower left foreground. The scene emphasizes color rhythm and decorative patterns over anatomical detail.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. There is visible fading of color pigments to a blue/green shift common in older mechanical prints. The paper shows slight rippling, and the matting appears aged.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $75 (Reproduction value)
Auction Estimate
$10 - $50
Provenance History
Likely mass-produced as a museum or gallery print for residential decoration; no specific exhibition history for this individual print is evident.
Art Historical Significance
The original painting provides a key example of Prendergast’s transition toward a more abstract, tapestry-like composition that influenced American modernists to move away from realism toward decorative expression.
Notable Features
Distinctive blocky 'Prendergast' signature in the lower left, characteristic of the artist's late style; the print mimics the heavy impasto surface of the original oil painting.
Condition Issues
UV-related color shift (yellows and reds have faded, leaving a dominant cool blue/grey tone), possible acid burn from non-archival matting, and slight foxing on the margins.
Conservation Recommendations
Replace with acid-free archival matting and UV-protective glass if the owner wishes to preserve it; however, the cost of professional conservation would exceed the market value of the print.