Two Women Seated (Descriptive Title)
Mixed media drawing on paper, under glass and matted in a wood frame • Bonnie Bing (as per the clear signature at the bottom center of the work)
Style & Movement
Modern Figurative Expressionism; the work reflects a mid-to-late 20th-century trend of loose, gestural figuration that prioritizes emotional weight over realism
Medium & Technique
Ink wash, charcoal, and possibly watercolor or gouache; expressive, loose brushwork with gestural line work emphasizing form through tonality rather than detail
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970s-1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 20 x 24 inches for the window; Horizontal/Landscape format relative to the framing, though the central image is nearly square
Subject Description
The composition features two female figures seated closely together. The figure on the left wears a large, floppy hat, casting shadows over her face, while the figure on the right is bareheaded with prominent facial features. Their expressions are somber or melancholic. There is a textured vertical element in the background, perhaps representing a wall or screen
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the paper appears flat without visible foxing or severe discoloration, though the matting shows slight aging
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800; based on market values for known regional expressionist artists of this caliber
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a regional gallery or direct studio sale; the professional framing suggests it was part of a private collection
Art Historical Significance
The piece is a representative example of 20th-century American expressive figuration, demonstrating a mastery of ink wash techniques to convey psychological depth between subjects
Notable Features
Bold signature 'Bonnie Bing' at bottom center; high-contrast use of black ink against the off-white paper creating a dramatic chiaroscuro effect on the faces
Condition Issues
Possible minor yellowing of the paper or matting due to age; some glare on the glass suggests it may not be museum-grade UV-protective glass
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is mounted using acid-free materials; replace glass with UV-filtering acrylic if the work is displayed in a bright room to prevent fading of the delicate washes