Bearded Man (Self-Portrait or Sage Study)
Work on paper; painting/mixed media drawing • Louise Sperling (signed lower left)
Style & Movement
Expressive Realism / Mid-Century Modernism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and pastel (or colored pencil) on paper; utilizes a combination of broad washes and gestural line work
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th Century (circa 1960–1980)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 10 inches (sight); Portrait format, narrow vertical aspect ratio
Subject Description
A vertical, close-up portrait of an elderly man with a prominent beard and furrowed brow. The composition focuses heavily on the psychological depth of the subject's gaze. The use of unnaturalistic green and blue shadows on the face suggests an emotional or expressive interpretation rather than a purely representational one.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible signs of aging consistent with mid-20th-century paper works
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $1,200 (based on regional market for listed mid-century artists)
Auction Estimate
$300 - $700
Provenance History
Private collection; acquired through secondary market or directly from the artist's estate. The signature 'Louise Sperling' is clearly visible in the lower left corner in a stylized script.
Art Historical Significance
The work is a strong example of the mid-century trend towards psychological portraiture. It reflects the influence of German Expressionism and French Fauvism in its color palette, repurposed for a more intimate, personal study. Louise Sperling is known for her emotive figurative works and portraits.
Notable Features
Distinctive vertical 'long-face' composition; vibrant use of turquoise and lime green highlights against earthy brown washes; highly stylized signature in a contrasting color.
Condition Issues
Minor toning/yellowing of the paper consistent with age; slight rippling of the paper support; potential light fading due to UV exposure if not behind conservation glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is mounted using acid-free, archival materials. Recommend UV-filtering museum glass and keeping the work out of direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the watercolor pigments.