Still Life with Bowl, Onions, and Squash
Painting on stretched canvas • Attributed to an independent mid-century modernist painter (signature visible in lower right, possibly reading 'HOSSE' or similar)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modernist / Expressionist Still Life
Medium & Technique
Oil and/or acrylic paint applied with heavy impasto, palette knife, and aggressive linear linework/scraping (sgraffito technique)
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century, circa 1960s-1970s
Dimensions & Format
Medium-scale rectangular format, estimated approximately 24 x 30 inches
Subject Description
A rustic interior still life composition featuring a ceramic bowl containing upright green stalks or scallions, a folded white cloth or paper draped on a table surface, and three pieces of produce including a striped gourd/squash, a red onion, and a yellow lemon, rendered against a moody, textured grey and brown abstract background
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good condition; stable canvas tension with expected minor surface dust and craquelure consistent with age
Estimated Market Value
300 - 600 USD
Auction Estimate
150 - 300 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a regional gallery, estate sale, or decorative arts market; exhibits a small white price or inventory tag on the upper left corner of the frame
Art Historical Significance
Representative of commercial and mid-century decorative modernism popular during the post-war era, heavily influenced by mid-century abstraction and expressive kitchen still-life motifs
Notable Features
Dynamic use of heavy black contour lines slashing across the composition, vibrant pops of primary colors (yellow, red, green) contrasting with a monochromatic grey background, and housed in a vintage wood and gilt-edged frame
Condition Issues
Minor surface grime, potential slight yellowing of varnish layers, and minor frame wear
Conservation Recommendations
Standard dry surface cleaning with a soft brush, careful inspection of the varnish layer, and proper indoor climate control away from direct sunlight