Matador in Green and Blue
Painting on stretched canvas • Signed 'Lee Burr' (pseudonym commonly used by mid-century commercial and decorative art production studios, associated with Turner Manufacturing or similar publishers)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Decorative Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil painting utilizing heavy impasto, palette knife application, and expressive, directional brushwork
Creation Period
Mid-to-late 20th century, circa 1960s-1970s
Dimensions & Format
Estimated approximately 30 x 40 inches, vertical portrait format
Subject Description
The composition depicts a torero or matador seen from behind, wearing traditional embellished bullfighting attire rendered in deep blues with elaborate white embroidery and a black sombrero. The figure is set against an expressive, abstract background of vibrant yellow, chartreuse, and deep green hues.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good condition. The surface shows stable pigment with minor environmental dust accumulation typical of garage or attic storage.
Estimated Market Value
150 USD - 350 USD
Auction Estimate
100 USD - 200 USD
Provenance History
Acquired through secondary residential markets, likely originally purchased from a mid-century furniture store, department store, or catalog distributor specializing in home decor art.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the popular mid-century commercial art market that brought stylized, expressive interpretations of European and Spanish themes into suburban American homes.
Notable Features
Features a prominent signature in the lower left corner ('Lee Burr') and retains its original mid-century modernist wooden frame with inner gold fillet.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dirt and dust; slight frame abrasions along the outer edges; canvas tension appears generally stable but should be inspected for slackness.
Conservation Recommendations
Light surface cleaning with a soft, dry microfiber brush. Keep away from high humidity and direct sunlight. The original wood frame is structurally sound and complements the piece.