Portrait of an Elderly Man in a Straw Hat (possibly a local Key West character)
Painting on linen support • Kathy Corey (Key West artist)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Regionalism / Realistic Portraiture with Impressionistic influences
Medium & Technique
Oil on linen; the technique involves local color application with visible brushwork, scumbling in the beard to create texture, and short, rhythmic strokes in the hatband and background to suggest light and shadow.
Creation Period
Late 20th century to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; Portrait format
Subject Description
A close-up, three-quarter view portrait of an elderly man with a voluminous white beard and mustache. He wears a yellow straw hat with a teal patterned band and a blue shirt. The composition is intimate, focusing on the weathered features and reflective expression of the subject, set against a dark, textured blue background that emphasizes the warmth of the skin tones.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the paint film appears stable with no visible signs of flaking, significant craquelure, or fading.
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or through a local gallery in the Key West, Florida area; currently in private collection.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the vibrant local art scene of Key West. Kathy Corey is known for capturing the faces and landmarks of the Florida Keys. This work functions as a character study, contributing to the regional documentation of the area's residents and their distinct tropical lifestyle.
Notable Features
The use of linen rather than common cotton canvas indicates a higher-quality choice of support by the artist. The contrast between the high-chroma yellow hat and the cool blue shirt and background creates a strong visual 'pop' characteristic of coastal light aesthetics.
Condition Issues
None visible in the current photograph. The linen support appears taut and the surface lacks significant accumulated grime or yellowed varnish.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with stable humidity; protect from direct UV light to prevent color shifts in the blues and yellows. Professional framing with a spacer or archival matting is recommended to protect the edges.
Collector Notes
Key west Artist Kathy Corey oil in linen