Washington D.C. Temple in Spring
Painting on paper • Unidentified regional or amateur artist; possibly created within a religious community context
Style & Movement
Contemporary Folk Art / Naive Realism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and gouache with possible ink detailing; wet-on-dry and dabbing techniques for foliage
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 9 inches; portrait orientation
Subject Description
A depicition of the Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The composition features the six-spired building reflected in a foreground pond, framed by vibrant cherry blossoms and spring greenery.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the colors remain vibrant, though there is slight evidence of paper buckling or uneven saturation in the sky.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via local artisan market or private commission; no visible legacy stamps or labels.
Art Historical Significance
Illustrates the intersection of religious architecture and regional landscape art; carries high sentimental and devotional value rather than high institutional academic standing.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of high-contrast saturated red palette for the flora; stylized treatment of the temple spires and golden Angel Moroni statue.
Condition Issues
Minor paper warping from water saturation; slight fading likely if exposed to direct UV; no major tears or staining visible.
Conservation Recommendations
Frame using acid-free matting and UV-protective museum glass to prevent pigment fading and paper yellowing.