Courtyard in the French Quarter (possibly Pat O’Brien’s or similar historic patio)
Print (Offset Lithograph or Serigraph based on appearance) on heavy paper • Don Davey
Style & Movement
Mid-century Americana / Architectural Regionalism
Medium & Technique
Mechanical reproduction of a gouache or watercolor original; architectural illustration style with flat planes of color and graphic linework
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; Portrait format
Subject Description
A sunny New Orleans courtyard scene featuring Spanish/French colonial architecture, a characteristic brick archway with green shutters, a central palm in a large earthware pot, and wrought-iron balconies. The composition uses a worm’s-eye perspective to emphasize the height of the historic building.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows consistent aging and minor handling wear common for vintage prints of this era.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $125
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80
Provenance History
Likely purchased as part of a New Orleans souvenir series or from a regional gallery; signature printed in the plate (bottom right).
Art Historical Significance
Don Davey was a prolific and commercially successful illustrator known for his travel portfolios of American cities. His work captures the post-WWII boom in domestic tourism and the romanticization of the French Quarter's historic aesthetic.
Notable Features
Distinctive graphic signature of Don Davey in the lower right corner; captures the 'New Orleans School' of commercial illustration that popularized the city's architectural charm.
Condition Issues
Visible yellowing (acidic toning) consistent with aged paper; slight edge wear and minor surface abrasions; potential fading from light exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Mount using acid-free, archival-quality materials; use UV-protective glass if framing; keep in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight.