The Linden Tree (Study in Blue)
Drawing on paper • Attributed to the circle of Avigdor Arikha or similar mid-century European figurative draftsmen; signed lower right 'AvOll' or similar monogram.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Modern Figurative / Post-War Realism
Medium & Technique
Blue chalk or grease pencil (possibly lithographic crayon) on off-white paper. Technique involves dense cross-hatching and stippling to create volume in the foliage and texture on the bark.
Creation Period
Circa 1950-1970
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 11 x 14 inches (sight), vertical portrait format, housed in a traditional dark wood beveled frame.
Subject Description
A solitary, stylized tree with a thick, textured trunk and a dense, rounded canopy of leaves. The composition is centered and focuses on the interplay of light and shadow through monochromatic blue tones, emphasizing organic form over environmental context.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paper shows minor undulation; colors appear stable without significant fading.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely private collection purchase. The frame style suggests a late 20th-century residential setting. No visible gallery labels from the current perspective.
Art Historical Significance
This piece represents the mid-century shift toward intimate, observational studies of nature. It exemplifies the era's interest in 'the object' and the use of monochromatic palettes to explore structural integrity in natural forms.
Notable Features
Distinctive blue-only palette; a unique 'AvOll' signature in the lower right corner; highly tactile rendering of the tree bark vs. the soft, airy treatment of the upper leaves.
Condition Issues
Minor surface smudging consistent with charcoal or chalk mediums; slight yellowing of the paper edges (acidification) due to contact with non-archival framing materials.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional reframing using acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing is recommended to prevent further discoloration and light damage.