Courtyard in the French Quarter (New Orleans)
Original painting on paper (likely watercolor or gouache) • Don Davey (American, 1921–2003)
Style & Movement
Mid-century American Illustration / Regionalism; influenced by the artist's professional background in editorial and commercial art.
Medium & Technique
Watercolor with possible ink or gouache accents; technique involves layered washes, wet-on-dry brushwork for architectural detailing, and textural dabs to represent foliage.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century, circa 1950s–1970s
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 14 x 18 inches (standard for this artist's framed works); vertical portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A nostalgic depiction of a New Orleans courtyard, featuring characteristic archways, wrought-iron accents, potted palms, and historical brickwork. The composition uses a low-angle perspective to emphasize the verticality and nested spaces of the French Quarter architecture.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair. The paper shows visible yellowing/toning characteristic of age and exposure to non-acid-free mounting materials. Colors appear slightly faded.
Estimated Market Value
$150 – $400 USD (assuming it is an original watercolor)
Auction Estimate
$100 – $250 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a local gallery or through commercial distribution in the Gulf Coast region. These were frequently sold as high-quality originals or lithograph reproductions in the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Don Davey was a member of the American Watercolor Society and became famous for his architectural drawings of New Orleans. This piece is representative of the 'Travel Art' boom and the romanticization of the Southern Gothic aesthetic in American postwar art.
Notable Features
Signature 'Don Davey' is prominent in the lower right corner in his characteristic script. The focus on texture in the brickwork and the specific palm in the foreground are hallmarks of his style.
Condition Issues
Visible browning (mat burn) along the edges of the paper; slight light-struck fading (loss of blues and greens); minor foxing spots may be present under the glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be remounted using acid-free archival matting and UV-protective glass to prevent further yellowing. Avoid hanging in direct sunlight.