Miss Elsie at Twilight
Limited Edition Print, Offset Lithograph on paper. • Jim Lee (American). The work is signed and numbered in the plate/upper left corner as 457/1726.
Style & Movement
Contemporary American Realism / Wildlife and Sporting Art.
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography from an original painting. The technique mimics traditional brushwork with soft color transitions and realistic detailing in the water and reflections.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, likely circa 1980-1995.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 24 inches (including matting); Landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A serenity-focused landscape depicting a wooden pier, a reddish rowboat named "Miss Elsie" moored at the shore, and a grassy bank with a white hammock. The background showcases a sunset/twilight sky reflected in calm water with ducks in the distance.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The print appears stable within the frame, though there is potential for minor light fading common with offset lithographs of this age.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD based on current secondary market trends for mid-tier limited edition prints.
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD.
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a commercial art gallery or specialized wildlife art retailer. Features an auction or inventory tag (green, marked "69 666") suggesting a recent secondary market appearance.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the popular American 'nostalgia' and sporting art movement of the late 20th century. While culturally resonant for home decor, its significance is decorative rather than foundational in art history.
Notable Features
Hand-numbered signature (457/1726). The specific boat name 'Miss Elsie' adds a personalized, narrative element to the composition.
Condition Issues
Visible inventory stickers on the glass and frame. Potential acidic burn from the existing matting if not acid-free; possible slight chromatic shifts due to UV exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove inventory stickers. If sentimental value warrants, remount with archival acid-free matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further fading.