Sunflowers in a Blue Jug
Watercolor painting on paper • Alma Monahan
Style & Movement
Traditional botanical and floral watercolor illustration
Medium & Technique
Watercolor on paper, utilizing wet-on-wet washes and fine line work for detail
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century
Dimensions & Format
Vertical rectangular format, approximately 18 x 24 inches visible art area with matting and frame
Subject Description
A vibrant still life composition featuring a rich bouquet of bright yellow sunflowers with dark brown centers, arranged inside a vivid blue ceramic jug resting on a tabletop. Surrounding the flowers are deep green leaves, and soft, loose background washes suggest gentle interior lighting.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paper appears stable with strong, vibrant pigment retention and minimal fading, though minor glare and light reflections from the protective glass cover are present.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250
Provenance History
Acquired through regional fine art or estate channels, retaining the original artist signature and framed presentation typical of mid-century domestic display.
Art Historical Significance
A charming example of mid-century decorative watercolor still-life painting, reflecting the enduring popularity of floral subjects and the post-Impressionist tradition of sunflower arrangements popularized by Vincent van Gogh.
Notable Features
Signed clearly in the lower right corner by the artist 'Alma Monahan' in script. The striking contrast between the intense yellow sunflowers and the solid cobalt blue jug serves as the focal point of the piece.
Condition Issues
None readily apparent from visual inspection, aside from standard potential acidic backing or mat board contact typical of older framing methods.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from direct, prolonged sunlight to prevent watercolor fading. Ensure hanging in a climate-controlled environment with low humidity. Future reframing with acid-free museum-grade matting and UV-protective glazing is recommended if conservation updates are needed.