Sunset Over Water
Original painting on canvas or artist board, landscape orientation • Mary Erickson (American Contemporary Landscape Artist)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Impressionism / Plein Air Painting
Medium & Technique
Oil on panel or canvas, employing wet-on-wet technique, soft blending (sfumato) for sky gradients, and textured impasto highlights on the water and horizon clouds
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (Circa 1990-present)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8x10 or 9x12 inches (image size); landscape format
Subject Description
A serene landscape depicting a sunset or sunrise over a body of water. The composition is divided by a low horizon line featuring a silhouette of mature trees. The sky occupies two-thirds of the canvas, filled with vibrant orange, violet, and gold hues. A strong sun reflection is visible in the foreground water.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good to Excellent; the paint layer appears stable with no visible craquelure or pigment loss
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD (based on current primary market prices for the artist)
Auction Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased via a contemporary art gallery or direct from the artist's studio; signature 'M Erickson' is clearly visible in the lower right
Art Historical Significance
Mary Erickson is a well-regarded contemporary plein air painter known for her atmospheric light and conservation efforts. Her work sits within the American Tonalist and Impressionist tradition, focusing on the preservation of natural landscapes.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'M Erickson' cursive signature; features an ornate gold-gilded inner frame with a linen liner, characteristic of high-quality contemporary gallery framing
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust; potential slight yellowing of varnish visible at the far edges; frame shows minor edge wear at the corners
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of the surface to remove airborne pollutants; display under UV-protective glazing or in a climate-controlled room away from direct sunlight
Collector Notes
Oil painting, M Erickson